Former Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale wished Jack Porter luck ahead of the Gunners youngster’s debut on Wednesday.
Jack Porter became Arsenal’s youngest-ever goalkeeper on Wednesday, making his debut for the Gunners against Bolton Wanderers in the League Cup.
It would have been an intimidating occasion for the 16-year-old, who won’t even be eligible for a professional contract with the club until next July.
But one thing that likely helped his nerves ahead of the game were the messages of support he received, including one from former Arsenal keeper Aaron Ramsdale.
As shown above, Ramsdale shared Porter’s Instagram post on his story, adding the caption “go well bud!” and a heart emoji.
Ramsdale probably didn’t spend much time training with Porter, given the youngster only recently stepped up to first-team training following the England international’s departure.
Porter first joined Arteta’s squad for a game on September 15th, when Arsenal faced Tottenham Hotspur, and he first appeared on the bench for the match away to Atalanta later that week.
Porter ended up having a good night on his first start on Wednesday, with Arsenal winning 5-1.
Though the youngster didn’t keep a clean sheet, he ended the match with a confident high claim, and he came out for a strong punch earlier in the game. He was put under some pressure in possession, but he held his nerve to avoid any major errors.
The goalkeeper may be in the squad again this weekend against Leicester City, with David Raya remaining an injury doubt. But it’s likely summer signing Neto will make the starting lineup if Raya is out, with Neto only cup-tied in the League Cup.