Mikel Arteta and Edu comment on Arsenal goalkeeper signing

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Brighton goalkeeper Mat Ryan has completed a loan move to Arsenal that will see the Australian stopper provide cover for Bernd Leno until the end of the season – and both Mikel Arteta and Edu have commented on the transfer.

Ryan, 28, has dropped out of the Brighton side during their last seven Premier League matches – being replaced by Robert Sanchez. Not only has he been left out of the starting line-up, but also from the entire matchday squad.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have been looking for more adequate cover for Germany international Leno. Summer signing Alex Runarsson has struggled since joining the club, making numerous mistakes in a 4-1 Carabao Cup defeat to Manchester City.

The Athletic claim Runarsson would be allowed to leave on loan if Arsenal can find themselves a replacement and now they have – confirming the loan addition of Ryan. Both Arteta and Edu reacted on the club’s website.

Edu said: “Mat is an experienced goalkeeper, a proven talent in the Premier League and has also played many internationals for Australia. Mat will further strengthen our squad with his experience and knowledge of playing at the highest level.”

Arteta followed: “We know Mat very well and he brings additional quality to our squad. Mat has very good Premier League experience and has played over 100 times in the league, which is something that will benefit us greatly on and off the pitch.”

TBR’s view – Ryan arrival means Runarsson set for loan exit

Unfortunately for the Iceland international, he has simply not proved to be of the standard required at Arsenal. Arteta wants to rest Leno in the cup games but clearly is yet to trust the £1.5million addition from Dijon.

So, bringing in 59-time Australia international Ryan on loan allows Runarsson to leave the club in a similar sort of deal – get regular game time and then return to Arsenal in the summer with more confidence. Whether that happens, remains to be seen.