Bernd Leno: Arsenal's new hero

Bernd Leno may be Arsenal's new hero between the sticks. He has continued to prove vital for the club and this was only reinforced by his strong performance against Leeds United.

LEEDS, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 22: Bernd Leno of Arsenal in action during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on November 22, 2020 in Leeds, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

By Toby Hill24 November 2020 20:26 BST

Arsenal have began the season with a poor start, creatively it has been disappointing and the lack of goals will be worrying for Mikel Arteta.

However Arsenal have been strong in defence, boasting one of the best defensive records in the Premier League.

Recent performances

Bernd Leno has been a standout performer for The Gunners and is instrumental in the success of the team.

Most recently Arsenal faced Leeds United and had the same problems as they have had since the start of the season, being unable to score.

This, combined with Nicolas Pepe getting shown a red card, meant that Leno had to be in top form to earn his team the point.

Leno was commanding in his box, facing a total of 25 shots in the match. He was fortunate to be helped out by the woodwork, with Leeds hitting the frame of the goal three times.

However, the German also made top saves, keeping out Patrick Bamford from close range and diving to his left to parry Stuart Dallas' shot wide of the goal.

This is not the first time that Leno has helped to save The Gunners. Arsenal faced Liverpool in the Carabao Cup in October and Leno was pivotal in helping Arsenal to progress, making countless saves to ensure his side kept a clean sheet.

Have Arsenal made the right decision?

Many fans were unhappy to see the back of Emiliano Martinez after he left for Aston Villa, but Arteta was also certain that Leno would be the club's number one choice.

The Argentinian has been performing very well for the Midlands club and this has made some fans question Arteta's choices.

Nonetheless since Martinez's departure Leno has looked strong within the Arsenal defence and it is clear that he will have a long future at the club. The German seems to grow in confidence by every game, and his key saves may be the difference in Arsenal's success this season.