Charles Watts says there is ‘no way’ back-up Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Turner leaves this summer in order to search for regular starts.
The 29-year-old arrived last summer to play second fiddle to Aaron Ramsdale, but Watts suggested that there is ‘worry’ back in his homeland of the USA at his lack of game time.
But the Arsenal transfer expert made it clear that Matt Turner won’t be going anywhere because the club have ‘so many other priorities’ to deal with, as he told his own YouTube channel.
The issue for Turner is that he is now USA’s number one, so he needs to keep his clock ticking.
Whilst last season, he could earn starts in the domestic cup games and in the Europa League, it won’t be the case ahead of the new Premier League season.
Ramsdale will keep his usual seat in the Premier League, but with the Gunners now returning to the Champions League, it means that the number one is always used.
Therefore, will Turner look to move on? Watts stated that won’t happen this summer, but there is every chance that avenue is explored in 12 months, as he labelled the American as ‘popular’ with his teammates.
“He came over last year,” said Watts. “He has been really popular behind the scenes. Whenever I have spoken to Matt, he is a really good guy.
“But he just hasn’t played much. When he has played, he has looked a little nervy, which is understandable because he is desperate to make an impact. I think he is a very good goalkeeper, he showed that at the World Cup. Is there a worry over in the States about his lack of game time? It seems like there must be.
“Just from a professional point of view, he would have to reassess it at the end of next season. There is no way Arsenal are going to do anything this season and let him go. They don’t want to worry about bringing another number two this summer when they have so many other priorities in the transfer market.”
Ramsdale on the rise
Whilst it isn’t helpful to Turner that he isn’t earning those regular starts, he should still be learning a hell of a lot given the environment he is in.
He came from the MLS where the quality is far lower in comparison to the Premier League, so training at London Colney on a regular basis should have its own benefits for Turner.
Playing alongside Ramsdale is also part of that. The Englishman is now one of the best keepers in the Premier League and someone who should possibly be England’s number one.
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