Chris Wilder has told talkSPORT that Aaron Ramsdale is just going from strength to strength since leaving Sheffield United and joining Arsenal as an England international this summer.
The Gunners paid the Blades £24m in August to offer Mikel Arteta another option in goal. He has since taken over from Bernd Leno as their number one, and has not looked back.
Ramsdale registered his sixth clean sheet in nine appearances as Arsenal beat Watford on Sunday. The 23-year-old has also only conceded four times across all competitions so far.
Arsenal are also unbeaten with Ramsdale featuring across all competitions, with Arteta’s men winning in seven of his appearances.
His efforts in north London convinced Gareth Southgate to recall the shot-stopper to the England squad for their November internationals. Ramsdale made the Three Lions squad for the first time in June, but is yet to make his senior debut.
Wilder praises Ramsdale for Arsenal and England successes
Wilder notes Ramsdale joined Arsenal after taking his chance to impress in the England camp at Euro 2020. He also left Sheffield United after a tough period in his career, having endured a second relegation in as many seasons after going down with Bournemouth.
“Brilliant. Fabulous. I am delighted for Aaron, he’s a great guy,” new Middlesbrough boss Wilder said. “It was a tough period for him [at Sheffield United], as it was for everybody. There are no hiding places in there, especially when you’re not getting results.
“You’ve seen the connection he has with the supporters. And in the England squad, it opened up a little bit for him in the summer, with a couple of injuries – with Dean Henderson being injured and Nick Pope.
“He took his chance incredibly well and impressed everybody. He has continued to go from strength to strength, so I am delighted for him.”
Ramsdale proving to be a very good signing for Arteta
Ramsdale is proving to be a very good signing for Arsenal and Arteta, despite his relegation with Sheffield United last season that cost Wilder his job at Bramall Lane in March.
The goalkeeper is producing remarkable performances in the Gunners’ net – like against Leicester that Wilder praised at the time.
Ramsdale is building a great relationship with the Arsenal fanbase, who have responded well to the passion he shows, too. While also building a great rapport with the Arsenal defence, by commanding his box and showing superb distribution.
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