Estonia coach Thomas Haberli has paid tribute to Karl Hein after a heroic performance from the Arsenal youngster during their 0-0 World Cup qualifying draw with Wales, while speaking to Delfi Sport.
When discussing what the future could hold for Arsenal’s goalkeeping department, much of the attention has focused on 19-year-old Arthur Okonkwo, a Hale End graduate who’s spent much of the last few months time training with Mikel Arteta’s first-team after signing a new long term contract during the summer.
But, during Wednesday night’s scoreless stalemate in front of a frustrated Cardiff crowd, another teenage shot-stopper offered a timely reminder of his potential.
Hein has often played second string to Okonkwo at U23 level since joining the Gunners from Nomme United.
But, remarkably, a man who has not come close to making a senior appearance for the London giants has already accumulated ten caps for his country, showing exactly why he is so highly regarded back home in Estonia while almost single-handedly keeping Wales off the scoresheet.
Is Karl Hein a future number one for Arsenal?
“In the last 25 minutes, we suffered a lot to keep the (0-0) score on the scoreboard,” said Haberlei, indebted to a Man of the Match performance from his fresh-faced talisman.
“In such games, we need a good goalkeeper. Today, (Hein) did very well.”
Hein made six saves on the night, denying Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale on more than one occasion while showcasing the sort of personality and positioning often associated with a more experienced glovesman.
Who knows, when Bernd Leno’s contract expires in 2022 – reports are saying the German is already target for Serie A winners Inter Milan – maybe Arsenal will not need to break the bank for a high-profile replacement.
Aaron Ramsdale as number one, Hein or Okonkwo in reserve?
“We finally got a point!” added Hein, whose Estonia side had lost all three of their qualifying fixtures before their trip to Britain (Delfi).
“That’s why we are goalkeepers. In difficult situations, if necessary, we have to be where the team needs us. This makes our work special and enjoyable.”
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