Mikel Arteta singles out Arsenal star that turned the game vs Aston Villa
Arsenal secured a statement victory on Saturday evening as they got the better of Aston Villa and Mikel Arteta was full of praise for one of his stars in particular after the game
Mikel Arteta hailed David Raya for his “unbelievable” save that set Arsenal on their way to victory over Aston Villa.
The Gunners sealed a 2-0 victory against Unai Emery ’s men on Saturday evening - Leandro Trossard and Thomas Partey scoring the all-important goals. But that did not tell the tale of the game.
Villa dominated large portions of the clash and Arsenal were indebted to goalkeeper Raya as he somehow kept out Ollie Watkins' effort from Amadou Onana’s deflected drive. Arteta believes that moment saw the momentum swing in his side’s favour.
Speaking after the full time whistle, the Arsenal boss said: “We had to change momentum, we had a 10-minute gap when we didn't get the rhythm and they were on top.
"They had the big chance that David [Raya] made an unbelievable save and it is was the magic moment of the game. I gave his moment to him [Trossard] to control the game."
Speaking specifically about the Gunners’ Spanish stopper, Arteta added: "We conceded really little and it's a big credit to the team as it is a difficult place to come, but when we needed him he was there and he made a terrific save."
Minutes after Raya’s stunning stop, Arsenal seized control of the game and the former Brentford man is under no illusions as to how important his contributions were. Speaking to the Gunners’ official website, he said: "It was a crucial moment in the game where it was 0-0 and they had chances and I was there to save Ollie's [Watkins] header.
Who was Arsenal's man-of-the-match vs Aston Villa? Share your thoughts in the comments below
"I think of what I remember, it's a shot from outside the box. I'm on the floor so I try to get up and I can't reach it. I just see Ollie going in there so I react as quickly as possible I put my hand there and there's no one there to get the ball."
Despite that, Raya does not believe that the save was the best of his career. He added: "It's just a repetition of things. You do drills and have to save one ball and get up to save another. This time it paid off. This is a reaction one, I don't think it's my best save. I try to help the team as much as possible to win games."
Raya will be hoping to keep up his eye-catching form next weekend as Arsenal aim to make it three wins from as many games at the start of the season. The Gunners take on Brighton at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Join our new WhatsApp communityand receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Related
Share this page
Guest Posts by Easy Branches
