Aaron Ramsdale was back in the Arsenal team against Brentford but almost made a dreadful mistake in the opening exchanges.
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Ramsdale starts against BrentfordDavid Raya ineligible to face parent clubEngland stopper almost makes embarrassing howlerWHAT HAPPENED?
Brentford came close to an opening goal against Arsenal when a clearly nervous Ramsdale dwelt too long on the ball and was closed down by Yoane Wissa who pinched the ball and fed Bryan Mbeumo. The Brentford striker went for goal but saw his effort blocked on the line, earning Ramsdale a reprieve. Gary Neville was seemingly quick to point the finger at Mikel Arteta after the incident in a post on X: "This is what happens when you have 2 keepers eating each other! You put them both under pressure."
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This is not the first time Arteta's decision to bring in Raya has been questioned. The Arsenal boss has been accused of creating a problem that did not previously exist, with both stoppers being guilty of errors this season due to the pressure created by the competition for places. Ramsdale's father has been particularly vocal and has said Arteta's handling of the situation has been "wrong." Ramsdale had lost his place in the team to Raya but was back in the starting XI against Brentford as his team-mate is ineligibe to play against his parent club.
GettyDID YOU KNOW?
Ramsdale's start for Arsenal was his first in over two months in the Premier League. The goalkeeper last featured in the 3-1 win over Manchester United on September 3.
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?
The Gunners are back in action in midweek in the Champions League against Lens. It remains to be seen which goalkeeper Arteta will select for the match.