Russell Martin shares Aaron Ramsdale verdict amid Southampton struggles after Arsenal transfer

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Arsenal made the bold decision to sell Aaron Ramsdale in the summer transfer window to Southampton.

The Gunners offloaded Ramsdale after three years in North London as Mikel Arteta opted to change his first-choice goalkeeper. 

Arsenal captured David Raya at the start of the 2023/24 campaign to all-but end Ramsdale’s career at the Emirates, seeing Southampton secure his signature on deadline day. 

It was a smart move for both the club and for Ramsdale, whose playing time had dropped significantly following Raya’s arrival.

• READ MORE: Five moments that ended Aaron Ramsdale’s Arsenal career

Russell Martin shares verdict on Aaron Ramsdale after Arsenal transfer

As expected for the Saints, it’s not been the easiest start for Ramsdale, who joined the newly-promoted side from the Premier League title challengers.

The objectives are contrasting between the Englishman’s former and current club, with the 26-year-old experiencing a baptism of fire at St Mary’s.

Having conceded seven goals in three Premier League games this term, it’s not been an easy start for Ramsdale, but that hasn’t unnerved Russell Martin. 

• READ MORE: Aaron Ramsdale makes Mikel Arteta admission when asked about Arsenal summer exit

Speaking after Southampton’s draw with Ipswich Town, the Saints boss heaped praise on the former Arsenal ‘keeper, despite his tough start, via Daily Echo. 

“He’s a top goalkeeper, he’s played three games and I don’t know how he’s conceded seven goals,” Martin explained.

“It’s not fair on him really. The stuff he does with the ball at his feet, the decisions he makes help us as a group and as a team.

“He’s a top goalkeeper and he’s showing that. I’ve only watched the equaliser once and that was enough because it made me feel sick.”

Southampton were moments away from sealing their first win of the season over Ipswich, before Sam Morsy netted a last-gasp equaliser at St Mary’s.

Arsenal haven’t looked back after selling Ramsdale

While Ramsdale was a fan-favourite at Arsenal and is a top goalkeeper on his day, there’s been little thought of the 26-year-old since his exit from the Emirates.

This is due to the form of Raya, who is taking the season by storm, pulling off a formidable save in almost every fixture he’s played so far. 

• READ MORE: ‘Unbelievable’ David Raya proved why Arteta ‘splashed’ cash on him vs Man City after ‘so many headlines’

The Spaniard’s confidence has reached a new level, with some believing that Raya is the world’s best at this moment. 

It was a sucker punch scenario for Ramsdale in his final season at Arsenal as a result of Raya’s presence although, Arteta’s call to oust the Englishman has proven to be the correct call.