Former Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman is keen to see Mikel Arteta give two fringe players a chance to impress against Brentford. A trip to west London awaits for the Gunners on Wednesday night as they bid to make the Carabao Cup fourth round.
Nothing but the strongest XI would do for Arteta in Sunday’s breathtaking north London derby. Usual suspects Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard all played their part as Arsenal fought their way to a 2-2 draw with Tottenham.
By comparison, the Gunners boss can afford to be more experimental against the Bees in the cup. And Seaman is hopeful that Emile Smith Rowe and Aaron Ramsdale will be promoted to the starting XI after waiting patiently for an opportunity to step up.
On Smith Rowe, the ex-England hero told Express Sport: “He’s starting to get on [the pitch] now, his fitness levels should be top quality. He’s had injuries. It’s a case of balancing it, similarly to the goalkeeper situation – keep players happy, try and give them time. I’m sure he’ll start against Brentford.”
The 23-year-old came through Arsenal’s academy and was viewed as one of their brightest prospects when he first burst onto the scene. Injury woes have seen him tumble down the pecking order, however, and he is yet to start a match this campaign.
Alongside Smith Rowe, Seaman is keen to see the Carabao Cup present Ramsdale with a chance to shine. Arteta has selected David Raya between the sticks since the international break, meaning a spot on the bench for the England international.
Arsenal paid £3million to take Raya on loan this season, and the move will become permanent if they fork out another £27m in a year’s time. The 28-year-old was keen to test his talent at a higher level after reaching the final year of his Brentford contract.
Arteta insists that it should be normal to rotate goalkeepers like outfield players. And he could get a chance to put that into practice over the coming weeks, with Premier League and European fixtures set to come thick and fast.
Seaman spoke to Express Sport in association with the British Heart Foundation, having taken part in their campaign to raise awareness for hidden heart disease ahead of World Heart Day on September 29.
“Heart disease is one of the world’s biggest killers and the worst thing is that you often don’t know you have a problem until it’s too late,” he said. “Over 200 people have given their time to support this campaign, with each empty seat representing a lost fan, a lost heart, an unfinished ending – it’s been a very poignant moment to be part of.
“For the football community and beyond, the British Heart Foundation’s lifesaving research offers hope to those impacted by heart disease. By shining a spotlight on heart disease this September, we can bring hidden heart conditions into focus and fund research breakthroughs to prevent more families living with that gaping hole left by the loss of a loved one.”
Ahead of World Heart Day this September, the British Heart Foundation and David Seaman are shining a spotlight on hidden heart conditions. To find out more or donate, visit spotlighton.bhf.org.uk
