Southampton manager Russell Martin has given his verdict on Aaron Ramsdale, who just made his debut for the south coast club after joining from Arsenal.
Southampton signed Aaron Ramsdale from Arsenal on Transfer Deadline Day.
The goalkeeper’s impending exit sparked a scramble for a replacement at the Emirates Stadium. At one point, Arsenal were in talks to sign four goalkeepers.
Ultimately, Neto joined Arsenal on loan from Wolves. Meanwhile, Ramsdale will now have a chance to get his career back on track with the Saints.
Having fallen behind David Raya in the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium, it was clear he had no part in Mikel Arteta’s plans. He will be Russell Martin’s first choice between the sticks, though, and will get the game time he needs at this stage in his career.
Indeed, he came straight into the starting XI on Saturday, and made his debut as Southampton were beaten 3-1 by Brentford.
Russell Martin hails former Arsenal star Aaron Ramsdale
Speaking after his side’s defeat, Martin was quick to praise the shot-stopper.
As quoted by the Southern Daily Echo, he said: “I thought he was really good. Even in the second half, the ball was getting put back to him too much because we were 2-0 down and at 3-0 definitely… He stuck to it and he’s going to be amazing.
“I think we’ll all fall in love with him very quickly because of who he is, the person he is, how brave he is. He’s got big character. So I think he’s going to be a brilliant signing for us.”
When asked how well Ramsdale would adapt to Southampton’s style of play, which requires goalkeepers to be confident with the ball at their feet and capable of playing short passes around at the back, the manager was unequivocal in his response.
He stated: “I think he’s brilliant with it [the ball]. Some of the passes he picked out today were fantastic… Every manager has their priority on what they want from a goalkeeper. Aaron gives us everything we want. That’s why we worked so hard to get him.”
Will Arsenal regret selling Ramsdale?
Whilst Arsenal have replaced Ramsdale, Neto arguably represents a downgrade, despite offering plenty of Premier League experience. Were Raya to be sidelined for a significant period at any point this season then Arsenal fans could soon find themselves missing Ramsdale.
Ramsdale often impressed whilst he was still a regular starter for the Gunners, and at 26-years-old he still has scope to improve.
Raya is now impressing for Arsenal, and has very much established himself as the No. 1 at the Emirates Stadium.
If Ramsdale can get back to his best and shine for the Saints, though, then he could prove that Arteta gave up on him too quickly.
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