We lost Emiliano Martinez last summer, and its something brought up by many supporters time & time again – but are we set to lose Bernd Leno too?
Mat Ryan was handed in-goal duty in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw against Fulham last week with Bernd Leno on the bench. Ryan conceded a penalty goal with Josh Maja storming the ball in the roof of the net. But his overall performance was impressive as Football Insider claimed that Arsenal are in ‘advanced talks‘ to keep the Australian international on a permanent deal.
“It’s rotation and precaution, there are players who haven’t recovered from the game [against Slavia Prague on Thursday], we have to be very careful because we don’t want to lose them. And there are others who deserve to play, for example Mat. He trains like a beast, he has been really positive around the place and he deserves a chance as well.” – Arteta speaking with Sky Sports post-match when asked about Ryan playing over Leno.
Ryan started ahead of Leno against Fulham seemingly earning his opportunity in training BUT there is something more to it. The Aussie disputing Leno for a starting berth with rumours of him nearing a permanent move into the bargain after Bernd Leno made some contentious statements only days before the weekend.
The German goalie was part of pre-match press conference ahead of our Europa League visit to Czech Republic for a season defining encounter against Slavia Prague last week, and Leno speaking about being happy at London Colney, claimed – he was considering a new challenge elsewhere.
Now, this is something which stuck with Arsenal faithful and angered many of them. Not only he said it ahead of a massive match but also after Arsenal handed him the first choice baton ahead of Emi Martinez by refusing to guarantee the Argentine a starting spot at the dawn of the season.
Leno has not been his best since the turn of the year, but he has been an influential figure in between the sticks for past couple of years which is why I can’t believe Mikel dropped him against Fulham owing to his comments.
With Mat Ryan nearing a permanent deal, it would also mean testing Leno on the subject and his fight to claim the number one spot, if he were to stay at Arsenal.
