Bernd Leno “Not A Top Four Keeper” As Decision To Sell Emiliano Martinez Questioned

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Bernd Leno “Not A Top Four Keeper” As Decision To Sell Emiliano Martinez Questioned

Former Arsenal centre-back Tony Adams has questioned the club’s decision to sell backup goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and restore Bernd Leno as No.1.

Martinez who shone at the back end of last season while Leno was injured – has departed to join Aston Villa, with Leno back between the sticks for the Gunners.

But while Martinez has got off to a good start to his Villa career, Leno was far from convincing during his side’s 3-1 defeat to Liverpool on Monday, and appeared to particularly struggle dealing with crosses into the box.

And speaking to Astro SuperSport, Adams suggested Arsenal may regret their decision to let Martinez go.

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“Martinez was incredible in their cup run. He was absolutely sensational,” Adams said. “And I do like big ones and what Leno does struggle with, for me, is crosses and stuff.

“But it isn’t about me. Arteta’s gone, ‘No, Leno is my number one, I like him,’ and he’s put all his faith in him. But I don’t believe that he’s a top-four goalkeeper, for me.

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“Martinez, it was coincidence, everything fell into place for Arsenal in the cup competition last year, it was like it was written in the stars.

“This goalkeeper comes in – been at the club for 10 years and not played 10 games – and he stops everything! He was a man possessed, he was absolutely incredible. And for me, he was the number one

“Now you’ve made the opportunity, you’ve got experience, go okay, yep. But Arteta’s the man and he’s chosen a different goalkeeper.”

Arsenal have brought in a new No.2 goalkeeper this summer, signing Icelandic shot-stopper Runar Alex Runarsson from French side Dijon, and it remains to be seen if he will be given an opportunity to shine in the near future if Leno’s mixed form continues.