Aaron Ramsdale makes Arsenal admission after losing spot in XI

Despite being a key part of Arsenal’s title challenge and return to the Champions League last season, Aaron Ramsdale has fallen behind David Raya in the goalkeeping pecking order.

Aaron Ramsdale is determined to reclaim his spot in the Arsenal goal to maintain his chances of representing England in Euro 2024.

Before this season, Ramsdale had been the undisputed No.1 over the past two campaigns. The goalkeeper started 72 of Arsenal’s 76 Premier League games. He kept 26 clean sheets and conceded 77 goals.

Yet, David Raya’s loan arrival from Brentford, has prompted a change. The Spaniard appears to have leapfrogged Ramsdale in the pecking order. He has started each of Arsenal’s last four Premier League games, as well as both of the Champions League fixtures.

Nevertheless, the goalkeepers maintain a positive relationship, as they compete with each other.

“He [Raya] picks me up, and there might be a day where he’s down, and, even though I’m hurting for not playing, I have to stand up and be able to push him and make sure he’s ready for the weekend,” Ramsdale said.

The 25-year-old was part of the England squad for recent matches against Australia and Italy. He did not make an appearance in either game.

That said, Ramsdale appreciates the trust placed in him by England manager Gareth Southgate. He does acknowledge the concern over his lack of minutes though.

“Yeah, of course,” the former Sheffield United keeper said when asked if his lack of game time at Arsenal is a concern.

“It is the first time I have found myself in this situation.”

Looking ahead, Ramsdale’s aim is on Arsenal’s upcoming match against Chelsea on Saturday. While the Euro qualifiers next month could present an opportunity for Ramsdale, his primary focus is regaining his place in the club team

“They are two [England] games which I could target,” he admitted.

“But first I’ve got to give [Southgate] a decision and be available to be picked, and that is by getting back into my club team. If that’s not the case, then we’ll see in three or four weeks’ time.”