Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has dropped in England's pecking order, with Crystal Palace's Sam Johnstone now considered the second-choice goalkeeper, according to Sky Sports journalist Rob Dorsett. ¹ This comes after Ramsdale was relegated to second-choice at Arsenal, following the signing of David Raya from Brentford.
Ramsdale's lack of playing time at Arsenal has affected his chances of playing for England, with former England goalkeeper David Seaman stating that Ramsdale needs to be playing regularly to be considered for the national team. ¹ Despite being included in Gareth Southgate's squad for the international break, Ramsdale did not play in either of England's games against Malta and North Macedonia, with Jordan Pickford retaining his spot as first-choice goalkeeper.
Johnstone's impressive performances have caught the eye of Southgate and Steve Holland, making him a favorite to be Pickford's back-up. Ramsdale's situation is a concern for Southgate, as goalkeepers need to be playing regularly to be considered for the national team. Nick Pope, who has recently returned from injury, is another option for Southgate but has yet to be included in the squad.
Ramsdale's fall in the pecking order comes as a surprise, given his impressive performances for Arsenal last season. However, his lack of playing time and the impressive form of Johnstone have made him the second-choice goalkeeper for England.