Arsenal’s three biggest surprise packages of 2021: Ramsdale included

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Mikel Arteta may still have plenty of doubters to silence, but there is no question that Arsenal go into 2022 in a better place than they were as 2021 loomed at the Emirates.

The Gunners went into Boxing Day one year ago with five defeats in their last eight in all competitions. And they were simply hapless in the Carabao Cup tie with Manchester City.

For some, Arteta is still not the right man. But Arsenal have enjoyed a productive year. Their summer window looks to have given the Gunners some good foundations to build from.

And heading into the new year, here is a look at the three players who provided the biggest surprises of 2021 for Arsenal…

Emile Smith Rowe

It is simply remarkable to recall that Smith Rowe was not a first-team regular until 2021. In fact, he did not make his first Premier League appearance of last season until Boxing Day.

When his chance came his way, he took it with both hands. And he is now one of the first names on the team sheet when he is available. It has been an amazing 12 months for the attacking midfielder.

Takehiro Tomiyasu

Few Premier League fans would have had a clue about Takehiro Tomiyasu as the summer transfer window opened. It turned out that he had an impressive year with Bologna in Serie A. But you could understand if Arsenal supporters were not getting carried away when links with the Japan international emerged.

It was actually claimed at one stage that he agreed personal terms with Tottenham. But ultimately, it was Arsenal who brought the 23-year-old to England. And he has proved to be an inspired signing.

He is certainly on his way to cult-hero status.

Aaron Ramsdale

Few outsiders could understand why Arsenal were willing to pay up to £30 million to sign Aaron Ramsdale in the summer. In fact, many – including this particular writer – mocked the Gunners for even pursuing the twice-relegated goalkeeper.

But we could not have been shut up more emphatically. Ramsdale has been colossal this season. He is already the undisputed number one at the Emirates.

Like Tomiyasu, he is absolutely a fan favourite. And it says a lot that he is being spoken about a captaincy contender just a few months after arriving.