Arsenal captaincy battle imminent as new star throws his hat in the ring – ‘I’d excel’
Aaron Ramsdale could rival Martin Odegaard for the position of Arsenal captain after the goalkeeper’s claim about ‘excelling’ in the role.
Mikel Arteta stripped Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of the armband in December following a disciplinary breach. He has used Alexandre Lacazette and Granit Xhaka as leaders in the last few months.
Arteta will have to decide on a long-term captain if Lacazette leaves the Emirates this summer. Lyon are hoping to take the forward back to France.
There are several Arsenal players who may take up the mantle. Martin Odegaard is one of them, having captained Norway since March 2021.
Earlier this month, the attacking midfielder emphasised his experience and revealed his advice to team-mates Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe. It seemed Odegaard was staking his claim for the role of skipper.
But Ramsdale has also set his sights on the captaincy. The Englishman has been in great form this campaign and is demonstrating leadership from the back.
Aaron Ramsdale open to increased responsibility
During an interview with FourFourTwo, Ramsdale was asked about potentially becoming captain. He replied: “Listen, I’d take the responsibility but that’s down to the manager.”
The former Sheffield United man added: “We’ve got a lot of strong characters, though, and a lot of people who I think would be good captains.
“Just to be told ‘you’re in a leadership role’ – I’d relish whatever. You never turn down a captaincy and I think I’d excel if I was given the armband, but that’s down to the boss.”
Ramsdale began the season on the bench for Arsenal, but soon usurped Bernd Leno to establish himself as number one.
His record stands at 12 clean sheets in 24 Premier League games so far. That defensive solidity is helping the Gunners push for Champions League qualification. They sit fourth after 28 games, having won 17 of them.
Ramsdale’s impressive form saw him earn a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad. However, he pulled out due to a suspected hip injury. West Brom keeper Sam Johnstone came in to replace him.
23-year-old Ramsdale will be hoping to recover in time for Arsenal’s next match. They face Crystal Palace on Monday April 4.
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