Antonio Conte says Aaron Ramsdale was ‘really good’ during Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur in the north London derby on Sunday, as he told Sky Sports.
The Tottenham boss stated that Ramsdale made a ‘fantastic’ save to deny Son Heung-min in the first half when the scores were 1-0, if that had gone in, it would have changed the tide of the game.
Arsenal deserved the three points and they were the dominant team in the first half, with their neighbours turning the heat up at the start of the second half.
For Arteta and his players, this was all about weathering that storm. Well, they did just that and their goalkeeper between the sticks stood up strong when it mattered most, including making a number of vital saves, no more so than from Ryan Sessegnon.
The England number two commanded his penalty area, rushed out when he needed to and smoothed any clear-cut chances Spurs were trying to create.
Ramsdale’s performance was recognised by Conte, who watched his own keeper, Hugo Lloris, throw the ball into his own net for Arsenal’s opening goal.
“When we concede the first goal,” said Conte. “We had the possibility to level the game with Sonny. I think the keeper made a fantastic save.
“In the second half, we tried with a big effort, to score and create problems at Arsenal. I think the keeper made a fantastic save today.
“Arsenal is a difficult opponent now, like Manchester City. Both teams are going to contend to be title contenders to win the Premier League. We played against a strong team.
“I think today the keeper was really good to avoid and concede a goal – they showed to be a really good team.”
ENGLAND’S NUMBER ONE?
When Ramsdale made a £30 million transfer from Sheffield United to Arsenal during the summer of 2021 (Sky Sports), there were a lot of questions raised.
At the time, the 24-year-old had been relegated twice with Bournemouth and the Blades, nor was he a fuly-fleged international.
Yet, those at the Emirates saw something in the player and since his move, they haven’t looked back.
At the Qatar World Cup, he was behind Everton’s Jordan Pickford who has been outstanding as England’s number one over the years.
But is it time that now changes?! Arsenal fans will certainly think so.
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