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Aaron Ramsdale returned to the starting XI in place of David Raya for the first time since November as Arsenal take on Brentford on Saturday.
Ramsdale has lost his place in the Arsenal team to summer signing Raya but the England international is back between the sticks for the home match against Brentford. Premier League rules prevent Raya from playing against the Bees because he is on loan at the Gunners, meaning he is not available for the match. The rules state that “during the period of the temporary transfer of his contract registration a player shall not play against the transferor (parent) club.” Raya moved to the Gunners on an initial loan, with the deal including an option to buy for £27 million ($34m).
Raya has forced his way into the Arsenal team this season at the expense of Ramsdale. Raya has looked shaky at times, resulting in Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s decision to switch his goalkeepers coming under scrutiny. Ramsdale has not started for Arsenal in the Premier League since the last time they faced Brentford in November due to the league’s rules. The weekend clash at the Emirates Stadium is his sixth Premier League appearance this season.
Ramsdale has conceded 11 goals in seven appearances in all competitions for Arsenal so far this season. He has had to watch on from the sidelines as Raya remains Arteta’s trusted No. 1 amid the north London team’s push for the Premier League title.
Arsenal are aiming to pick up an important three points from their home match against Brentford. The Gunners are third in the Premier League behind Manchester City and leaders Liverpool. A win will take them top of the table before their rivals go head-to-head at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
