What Arsenal fans just did to reduce Southampton star Aaron Ramsdale to ‘tears’

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Aaron Ramsdale returned to the Emirates Stadium today as Arsenal welcomed Southampton.

Arsenal and Southampton are going head to head in a Premier League clash today.

This fixture marks the return of Aaron Ramsdale to North London. The goalkeeper left Arsenal in the most recent summer transfer window, having lost his starting berth to David Raya last season.

Raya has produced remarkable form so far this season, justifying Mikel Arteta’s faith in him.

However, Ramsdale was never going to be satisfied with a second season as a back up option behind the Spanish shot-stopper.

However, the Gunners did struggle to source a replacement for Ramsdale. Sporting director Edu Gaspar had to force the signing of Neto on loan from Bournemouth at the eleventh hour after Ramsdale’s exit became at risk of falling through.

• READ MORE: Arsenal 24/25 confirmed signings, transfers in and out, loan exits and releases

Arsenal fans give Aaron Ramsdale moving ovation

Ramsdale was always a popular figure at Arsenal. Arteta was even criticised by fans for dropping the England international at times.

Whilst few would now argue that the Spanish coach made a mistake in backing Raya as his first choice pick, it is still true that Ramsdale did little wrong in his time at the club. He left with 89 appearances for Arsenal under his belt and his reputation enhanced.

Coming back to the Emirates Stadium today, the 26-year-old was warmly received by the home crowd. According to the Daily Mail, Ramsdale was even reduced to “tears” by the ovation he was given by Arsenal fans as he took to the field for the Saints. 

This moment may well have felt like closure for him, as he spent last season on the bench and somewhat disconnected from the supporters.

Mikel Arteta getting big decisions right

In his time as Arsenal manager, Arteta has never shied away from making big and bold decisions. The call to drop Ramsdale certainly qualifies as one of those, and was another that ultimately paid off in the coach’s favour.

Having the courage to make such decisions, and seeing them result in positive outcomes, sends a message to the squad and earns the respect of players.

The progress that the club have made under Arteta is in large part down to his willingness to take risks and stake his reputation upon the strength of his own convictions.