Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher question Aaron Ramsdale’s reaction to David Raya’s stunning save
Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher have questioned Aaron Ramsdale’s reaction to David Raya’s stunning save.
On Sunday afternoon, Arsenal hosted North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal twice went ahead after a Cristian Romero own goal and a Bukayo Saka penalty but they were denied three points by two Son Heung Min goals as the match ended 2-2.
Heading into the weekend, the main talking point was whether Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will change his goalkeeper.
Having started Ramsdale for the majority of the season, the Englishman was dropped against Everton earlier in the month, then subsequently for their Champions League clash against PSV Eindhoven.
Against Spurs, Arteta opted for Raya again and the Spaniard made a brilliant save to deny Brennan Johnson in the first half.
On the back of that save, Ramsdale was caught on camera applauding the man who took his starting spot.
However, the authenticity of Ramsdale’s reaction has been questioned by both Neville and Caragher.
Speaking on commentary, former Manchester United defender Neville said: “What must Aaron Ramsdale be thinking? He just fetches it behind him, reaches out.
“He’s saying ‘Well done mate’. He’s either a top individual or a good actor!”
Whilst Carragher said after the match: “I thought I was at the Oscars, you know when someone loses the OScar and they start clapping and smiling for the other person.
“I mean I was laughing when I saw that. He's absolutely devastated.”
🗣️ "You know when someone loses the Oscar and they start clapping and smiling for the other person" 🥲@Carra23 on Ramsdale's reaction to that Raya save... pic.twitter.com/5zpGgjZBAf
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 24, 2023
Arteta admitted before the Spurs match that he understands Ramsdale’s frustration.
He said: “I understand [his frustration] and it's very difficult for every player.
“He's been very supportive and good around the place and that's what I expect from every single player because when you're on the field there is someone else who's not so it works both ways. So far he's been very good.”
Arsenal will be back in action on Wednesday as they take on Brentford in the EFL Cup.