Arsenal and Mikel Arteta returned to winning ways on Wednesday night in an all-important 4-2 victory over London rivals Chelsea. The Gunners went into the game with three defeats on the bounce hanging over their heads, taking the top four race into the hands of Tottenham.
However, a resilient performance from the young team saw them battle back from the many setbacks that the Blues threw their way. They were pegged back twice as Eddie Nketiah and Emile Smith Rowe gave them the lead, only for Timo Werner and Cesar Azpilicueta to quickly bring things to level terms.
The second half went much more in their favour though, as Nketiah sniffed out another chance to poke home before Bukayo Saka sealed the tie late on with a penalty. It led to a lot of praise from Arteta after the game: “I said to them if you want to be playing Champions League football you have to come to these big stages and beat the top teams.
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“Tonight we’ve done it and I’m really proud of them tonight, but I’m more proud of how they’ve reacted to every defeat over the past few weeks. Not only the players but as a staff and a club, and that’s what reinforces me and gives me a reminder of how lucky I am to be here.”
Following Saka’s penalty, there were jubilant scenes on the pitch from all of those in Arsenal colours. While everyone ran towards the goal scorer, goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale had a different idea.
The England shot-stopper turned around and celebrated in front of the home crowd. The supporters, somewhat annoyed, gave him an earful and some headed for the exits, prompting him to wave them goodbye.
It’s the latest in a long string of amusing moments from Ramsdale, who has been praised for his boisterous personality throughout the season. The energy he has brought along to the club has resonated with fans and this will only add to their affection for him, so long as his performances keep to a high standard.
