Declan Rice sends clear message to Aaron Ramsdale after huge Arsenal error

Declan Rice has paid tribute to Aaron Ramsdale for his second-half heroics during Arsenal’s 2-1 win vs Brentford in the Premier League, despite gifting the Bees a goal earlier in the match.

Rice gave Arsenal the lead in the 19th minute with a deft header after he was picked out by a sumptuous cross from Ben White.

Mikel Arteta’s side looked set to go into half-time with a one-goal lead, but Bees forward Yoane Wissa caught Ramsdale in possession.

Ramsdale’s attempt to pass the ball out from inside his own six-yard box was blocked by the Congolese striker before the ball ricocheted into the back of the Arsenal net.

Declan Rice backs Aaron Ramsdale despite Arsenal error

Ramsdale, who started in the absence of the ineligible David Raya due to conditions within the Gunners loan deal with Brentford, would have been mightily relieved when Kai Havertz headed home the winning goal in the 86th minute.

Taking to social media after the match, Ramsdale wrote: “This team…It was tough out there, but it was special to be back.

“I owe my teammates and the amazing fans the world for the support I get week in week out.”

Ramsdale was soon inundated with supportive comments from his fellow Arsenal players, with Rice quick to point out that the keeper kept his side in the game on multiple occasions.

The 25-year-old saved what looked set to be a goal of the season contender from Ivan Toney, as Ramsdale tipped wide a sensational goal-bound strike from 40 yards out.

The Gunners shot-stopper also produced a superb save to deny a powerful Nathan Collins header, keeping the score at 1-1.

Rice, acutely aware of Ramsdale’s impact on the game, commented: “Kept us in it brother, we stick together.”

Arsenal are next in action on Tuesday, March 12, where they will be looking to overcome a 1-0 deficit in their Champions League Round of 16 second-leg clash against Porto at the Emirates Stadium.