Aaron Ramsdale Left Out of Arsenal Squad for Chelsea Match
Aaron Ramsdale was not included in the Arsenal squad for Saturday’s Premier League game against Chelsea, despite being expected to remain on the bench. The England international has lost his place as the club’s undisputed No.1 goalkeeper following the arrival and subsequent promotion of summer signing David Raya.
Ramsdale had been on the bench for the previous four Premier League games and was expected to remain there for the London derby. However, he was given a leave of absence on Saturday after his wife gave birth to a baby boy.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been impressed by Raya’s performances since taking over from Ramsdale, and the Spaniard is likely to remain in goal for the foreseeable future. Raya has kept three clean sheets in his four Premier League appearances and has been praised for his shot-stopping ability and command of his area.
Ramsdale joined Arsenal from Bournemouth last summer, but has struggled to make an impact at the Emirates Stadium. He made just nine Premier League appearances before being replaced by Raya, and has not featured in any of Arsenal’s last five league games.
The 24-year-old is likely to be given a chance to impress in the coming weeks, however, with Arsenal set to play a number of cup games over the festive period. He will be hoping to prove himself to Arteta and reclaim his place as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Ramsdale’s absence from Saturday’s game against Chelsea was a blow for Arsenal, who were already without a number of key players due to injury. The Gunners put in an impressive performance, however, and managed to secure a point with a 1-1 draw.
Arsenal will be hoping to build on their recent form when they face Leeds United on Sunday. The Gunners have won their last two Premier League games and will be looking to make it three in a row against Marcelo Bielsa’s side.
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