‘Sets a really high standard’…Arsenal youngster so impressed by international Arteta’s yet to use this season

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James Hillson has lauded the goalkeepers in the Arsenal first-team, praising Karl Hein for setting such a high standard on and off the pitch.

Hillson was speaking to Arsenal’s official website about working with the likes of Aaron Ramsdale and David Raya as he looks to make the grade at the Emirates.

Karl Hein appears to be in such an interesting position at Arsenal. The 21-year-old has only made one appearance for the Gunners’ senior side. And he looks to be third choice in the pecking order under Mikel Arteta.

James Hillson lauds Arsenal teammate Karl Hein

However, he is an established international, making 27 appearances for Estonia already.

Hein looks to be a really talented goalkeeper. And it seems that he has impressed his Arsenal teammates, with James Hillson sharing what kind of impact the youngster has had on him during his time in North London.

“Training with the first team is intense and operates at a different level, which is fantastic because it constantly pushes you to perform at your best. As a goalkeeper, you can’t afford to relax or coast because you will get found out,” he told Arsenal’s official website.

“The camaraderie among goalkeepers is incredibly supportive, and we all want each other to succeed. Players like Aaron Ramsdale and David Raya have been generous with their advice. Aaron, for instance, has helped me with footwork and positioning, and David has shared valuable insights about core body shape and being ready for shots. Karl, on the other hand, sets a really high standard with his work ethic, both on and off the pitch.”

Youngster facing huge task trying to force his way into Arsenal side

Despite his potential, Hein looks to have a huge task trying to force his way into the fold. Mikel Arteta made a surprise decision by dropping Aaron Ramsdale for David Raya after the summer.

Ramsdale was arguably one of the Premier League’s best in his position last season. And yet, Arteta decided that signing Raya would help take Arsenal forward.

Hein now has two outstanding goalkeepers ahead of him. And whenever the time comes to rotate, Arsenal now have a goalkeeper as good as Ramsdale to bring in.

Hein will be wary of letting his development stagnate. He has been on the books at Arsenal since 2018 and only played one game for the first-team.

Perhaps his time will come at some stage. But it is going to be incredibly difficult to see where that chance Hein needs is going to come from – particularly now that Arsenal are back amongst the heavyweights.

But judging by Hillson’s comments, he has the right mentality to reach the top – whether that is at Arsenal or elsewhere.