Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale says that Gareth Southgate is the best “man-manager” he has ever worked with as he prepares for England’s game against Andorra.
The 23-year-old is currently on international duty with his country as they take on the The Tricolours at Estadi Nacional on Saturday night – despite the stadium catching on fire on Friday afternoon.
After his excellent start to life at the Gunners, Ramsdale earned a well-deserved call-up to the Three Lions squad and has been enjoying his time away so far.
He was selected alongside Jordan Pickford and Sam Johnstone, with the Everton stopper expected to start the World Cup qualifier in Andorra.
Video Unavailable
It’s the same trio that trained together for the majority of Euro 2020 after Dean Henderson withdrew just before the clash with Scotland through injury.
Speaking on the England YouTube channel, Ramsdale has praised Southgate for the work he has done with the team and believes he’s a ‘top man’.
He said: “He’s possibly the greatest man manager I’ve ever worked with. He doesn’t speak to you as a footballer, he speaks to you as a human, he makes everyone feel welcome.
“This is the first proper time I’ve been involved in the squad without being called in late. He’s a top man and what he’s doing with this group of players is special.
“We were a few kicks away from winning a tournament and that’s our next goal. We haven’t qualified yet but hopefully that will happen in the next few games and all focus will be on Qatar. He’s a top manager and a top man.”
Since joining Arsenal from the Blades in August, Ramsdale has seemingly already replaced Bernd Leno as the number one, starting in each of the last four Premier League matches.
He has kept three clean sheets in that time, conceding his only goal in the 3-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur in the north London derby.
But Ramsdale was heavily praised after making a sensational save from Lucas Moura’s deflected strike, tipping the ball onto post before clawing it behind.
Having also played a vital role in keeping a shut out at Brighton & Hove Albion just before the international break, Mikel Arteta will be hoping he can continue the same form heading into their game against Crystal Palace on Monday, October 18.