David Raya insists Aaron Ramsdale battle to become Arsenal’s No1 has made them both better goalkeepers

Arsenal star David Raya has declared his fierce competition with Aaron Ramsdale to start has made them better goalkeepers.

The Spaniard joined the Gunners from Brentford in the summer on an initial loan, which includes an option to buy clause worth £27million.

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And after starting the opening three games on the bench, he has since established himself as the club’s No1 choice under manager Mikel Arteta.

But the 28-year-old has been plagued by mistakes in the first half of the season which has led to three goals, with Ramsdale also suffering from mishaps when he has been called upon.

Still, Raya has insisted he has benefited from the challenge to be named in Arteta’s starting XI.

Asked if his battle with Ramsdale has made him a better shot-stopper, he said: “Of course, and I think I have made him a better goalkeeper.

“I think that battle – I wouldn’t say battle, it’s just pushing each other in training, trying to help each other.

“If we see when we are training that we can help each other, that’s how we are and that’s how we do. That’s the goalkeeper union from the outside that you see.”

The three-cap Spain international added: “He is a top, top goalkeeper and a top, top team-mate. I hope he can say the same about me!

“We are team-mates, we are fighting for one position. That’s the only problem being a goalkeeper, there is only one that can play and I am just there to help the team as much as possible.

“We have a good relationship, especially as we push each other in every training session.

“That is going to make us better and it is going to make the team better.”

Raya is expected to be between the sticks when the Premier League leaders face their closest rivals Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

A victory would see the Gunners extend their lead over Manchester City to eight points, who will not be in action this weekend due to their involvement in the Club World Cup.

Arsenal haven’t beaten Jurgen Klopp‘s side in Merseyside since the start of the 2012/13 season.

But Raya isn’t fazed by their poor record, as he stated: “It is a massive game for any of the top teams playing against Liverpool away from home – with Anfield and the atmosphere.

“It is a top, top game and we have to focus on ourselves, focus on the three points and do the best to get them.”

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