Arsenal fans were left lauding Bernd Leno after the German’s performance against Olympiacos in the Europa League last night.
His start against the Greek giants was a surprise to many as Emiliano Martinez had started and finished every single game in the group stage. However, he vindicated Mikel Arteta’s decision to include him in the starting line-up, making three saves and punched the ball on two occasions (via WhoScored). His most important stop, arguably, came in the first-half as he pushed away a curling effort from Mathieu Valbuena, who was left unmarked at the edge of the box (via Sky Sports).
One fan called the former Bayer Leverkusen man ‘underrated’.
Bernd Leno is the most underrated goalkeeper in the world.
— WorldwideArsenal™ (@WorldwideAFC) February 20, 2020
He was lavished with praise by BT Sport (via The Express) pundit Robin van Persie, who actually claimed his performance during the tie is a bad sign for the Gunners given the number of saves he had to make. Fans were full of good comments for the Germany international as they reacted to his man of the match display. Here are some of the reactions:
Credit to Bernd Leno for being just as dependable as ever tonight. We arguably take it for granted because he has become so reliable, but he made some important saves while it was still scoreless.
— Patrick Timmons (@PatrickTimmons1) February 20, 2020
Another great game from Leno in terms of shot-stopping. One or two good punches too.
It’s sad for Martinez that he isn’t getting games at the moment, but we can’t risk dropping Leno at this point. He’s turned too many results in our favour.
— Dan Critchlow (@afcDW) February 20, 2020
Leno saved us a few times tonight & deserves praise for his performance, he does it so often for us throughout the season that it’s easy to go unnoticed 👏👏 very wise choice by Arteta to bring him in today….. pic.twitter.com/w66xE1sgTt
— Danny™ (@TorreiraBall) February 20, 2020
Unpopular opinion: Leno starts for every Premier League side besides Liverpool pic.twitter.com/nOjDgnDA0z
— Reece 🍄 (@afcreece7) February 20, 2020
Anyone who still doesn’t appreciate how good Bernd Leno is doesn’t know football at all.
Makes crucial saves for us EVERY game. My player of the season at this point in time. One of the best in the business. pic.twitter.com/k3MNKyZJ1h
— C (@AFC_Carys) February 20, 2020
Arsenal fans, do you think Leno is a world-class ‘keeper? Let us know your thoughts below!
