Mikel Arteta reveals classy message to tearful Aaron Ramsdale after Arsenal beat Southampton

Ramsdale swapped Arsenal for Southampton this summer and on Saturday, the 26-year-old made his return to his old stomping ground in a 3-1 loss at the Emirates. The England international was emotional following the contest, and now manager Arteta has spoken about his interaction with his former goalkeeper.

When asked what he said to his Ramsdale, Arteta told reporters post-match: "I wished him all the best and congratulated him for the way that they played as well. I wish him the best and I hope they do [well] – especially for the manager and Aaron because they are a really good side."

Ramsdale spent three years at Arsenal, two of which he was first choice between the sticks. However, the arrival of David Raya at the start of last season pushed him down the pecking order and when it became clear he was not content to be a number two, he signed for Southampton instead. The ex-Bournemouth man is now a regular for Saints, Arsenal pocketed £25 million ($33m), and all appear to be on good terms.

Arteta's Arsenal are back in Premier League action following the resumption of the international break with an away trip to Bournemouth on October 19, whereas Ramsdale's Southampton lock horns with Leicester City on the same date.