Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Turner has admitted that he was close to tears after picking up an injury last month that looked to threaten the USA international’s chances of going to the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking to the Athletic, the 28-year-old shot-stopper revealed that emotions were high when Turner picked up a groin injury that ruled the American out of Arsenal’s last few games before the World Cup break, with the former New England Revolution star missing the last two UEFA Europa League fixtures as well as a League Cup tie.
As Arsenal’s second-choice keeper, missing out on three matches having only made four appearances in all competitions would have been viewed by many as a World Cup-ending blow. However, Turner has since returned to fitness and was selected by the US to travel to Qatar, with the Gunners star expected to start against Wales.
Turner said when asked about his late groin injury: “It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I actually was like on the border of tears. I know that sounds a bit soft, but I’ve never had to do that before. I know that my opportunities are few and far between on the pitch.”
Conceding just once in his professional career with Arsenal, Turner has established himself as a fantastic backup to Aaron Ramsdale this campaign since joining in the summer for a reported £8m, with the American now set for the biggest moment in his footballing life with the USA out in Qatar.
With Manchester City keeper Zack Steffen missing out on the final squad, Turner is the clear favourite to start between the sticks for America, where the shot-stopper will likely face against his Arsenal teammates Bukayo Saka and Ben White in the second match of the group stage.
Matt Turner heading to the World Cup is perfect for Arsenal
The USA will be keen to impress in Qatar this month having missed out on the 2018 World Cup in Russia four years ago. And for Turner, the chance to represent his nation on the biggest stage of all will be a career-defining moment for the keeper, with Arsenal no doubt excited to see their backup shot-stopper get some minutes.
After all, Turner is expected to start every group stage match for the US this winter. And for a second-choice keeper at a club as big as Arsenal, playing for a national team at a World Cup is huge ahead of the Premier League restart in December, where the 28-year-old could play for the Gunners in the FA Cup.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
