Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale is enjoying another solid season between the sticks for the Gunners – and David James thinks he knows why.
Legendary England keeper James is fifth on the charts for all-time Premier League appearances, having kept 169 clean sheets in 572 top-level matches. The iconic shot-stopper had his own rituals, claiming that he wouldn't drink during a game unless his side had scored – so he recognises the signs.
With the Gunners top of the league and five points clear of Manchester City, whatever Ramsdale is doing is clearly working.
"I have started to notice some of the more unusual rituals from goalkeepers," James explained to Lord Ping (opens in new tab). "You get into these weird patterns where you think every action you complete will have a consequence.
"One of the funniest things I’ve seen this season is from Aaron Ramsdale. Ramsdale touches the crossbar until the match kicks off. I thought I noticed it last season, and he confirmed it for me when I saw Arsenal play recently.
"He always holds the bar until the game starts. I was at The Emirates recently, the players took the knee before the game and I watched him jump down from the bar, hop onto his knee and then jump straight back onto the bar until the kick-off was taken.
"He must do it for his own reasons, and Arsenal are top of the league, but players’ have a tendency to repeat whatever is working before a game, so you can’t argue with it."
In 27 matches this season, Ramsdale has conceded a total of 25 goals, keeping 12 clean sheets.
Arsenal take on Sporting in the Europa League tonight.
More Arsenal stories
The rumour mill is going into overdrive with Arsenal leading the way in the race to sign Declan Rice. One source claims a contract has been agreed with the midfielder, though Manchester City are interested, too. West Ham apparently have a successor lined up.
In other rumours, Raheem Sterling is being targeted, with a centre-forward on the wishlist, according to reports. A bid for Raphinha has been revealed while Rasmus Holjund of Atalanta is on the radar, too. January target Ivan Fresneda is still wanted by the Gunners, as well.
Meanwhile, Chelsea star Mykhaylo Mudryk – who turned down Arsenal in the winter window – has addressed his supposed unhappiness at Stamford Bridge.
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