‘Let’s see’: Sol Campbell eager to see how 6ft 2in Arsenal player continues to fare

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Arsenal legend Sol Campbell says he’s eager to see how Gunners goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez continues to fare as he stresses the importance of the Gunners having a solid spine.

First-choice goalkeeper Bernd Leno was ruled out for the remainder of the season in Arsenal’s second game back after the restart, and the Argentine has held the first-team gloves since.

Martinez has been impressive for Mikel Arteta’s side, his performances – including three clean sheets – helping the Gunners to a healthy points tally and ensuring that Leno’s absence hasn’t been felt too much.

Against Liverpool, the 6ft 2in stopper did get away with a late clearance which hit Roberto Firmino and then came off the woodwork, but key saves against Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Mohamed Salah were key to Arsenal running out 2-1 winners.

Speaking on Sky Sports – transcribed by Football London – Campbell said the Gunners should bolster their ranks with two or three new signings before singling out Martinez as one to keep watching.

“If (Arteta) can get a little bit (of money) and he can buy a few quality players, do some good deals, or move people on, then why not?” said Campbell. “I think some of the young players have been playing really well.

“So, maybe two or three (new signings). They have to look at the centre-half area. The spine of the team is always important. Let’s see how Martinez, the goalkeeper, goes on from here, but the spine of the team is important.”

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It’s always a cause for concern when a first-choice keeper gets ruled out for a long period of time, but credit to Martinez, he has deputised very well for Leno.

The Germany ace is aiming to be back in full training before the end of the season but Arteta now has the luxury of not having to rush him back, instead letting Martinez see out the campaign.

Maybe next season it’s not going to be as clear-cut in terms of Leno being first-choice after all, and with added competition pushing standards up, it can only be a good thing for Arsenal.