Arsenal and Leeds both paid a heartfelt tribute to Gunners icon David 'Rocky' Rocastle ahead of kick-off at the Emirates Stadium this afternoon. The two teams both held up shirts with Rocastle's name and the number he wore at each club as yesterday (Friday, March 31) marked 22 years since he tragically passed away.
The Gunners are currently leading the Whites 1-0 after Gabriel Jesus converted a penalty kick after being fouled by Luke Ayling. Mikel Arteta's side are looking to respond to Manchester City's win against Liverpool earlier today with three points against Javi Gracia's side.
Bukayo Saka has been named amongst the substitutes after struggling with illness ahead of kick-off this afternoon. Thomas Partey has returned to action after suffering an injury problem earlier this week, whilst William Saliba is yet to recover from a back injury.
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Martin Odegaard led the Premier League leaders out on to the pitch at the Emirates Stadium with the mascot next to him holding up Rocastle's Arsenal shirt. Luke Ayling led his side out with the Leeds mascot holding up 'Rocky's' jersey for the Whites.
Rocastle spent seven years at Arsenal and made over 200 appearances for the north London outfit, winning two first division titles and a league cup in that time. After leaving the Gunners, Rocastle moved to Leeds and became the club's most expensive signing in a £2million deal in 1992.
On March 31, 2001, 'Rocky' tragically passed away after a short battle with cancer. Later that day, supporters of Arsenal and Tottenham stood united in silence at Highbury to honour him before a north London derby.
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