Arsenal star Aaron Ramsdale has admitted to feeling “nervous” ahead of Thursday’s crunch north London derby.
Mikel Arteta’s side head to Tottenham knowing a win could seal a return to the Champions League next season, while Spurs have top-four ambitions of their own.
Realistically, Antonio Conte’s side need to win and hope Arsenal drop points against either Newcastle or Everton before the season closes.
A north London derby, of course, needs little in the way of added spice but the fact it was postponed in January at Arsenal’s request infuriated their rivals.
Spurs have impressed at home under the Italian’s watch, winning 8 of their 12 games there since his appointment.
Meanwhile, Ramsdale’s signing raised eyebrows over the course of the summer, particularly when Arsenal parted with such a big fee for him following his relegation with Sheffield United.
The England international, however, has ousted Bernd Leno as Arteta’s first-choice and is emerging as somewhat of a cult-hero amongst supporters.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Ramsdale said of the game: “It’s going to be good fun.
“If you don’t get excited and nervous for this type of game, then I think you’re in the wrong profession.
“The history of this fixture over the years is obviously well known, not just to the two sets of fans, but up and down the country.
“I’d probably say as a new Arsenal player and a new fan of the team, this is the biggest one for a long time with the magnitude of the game and what can come for both teams.”
