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Bournemouth 1-2 Arsenal: Bernd Leno is emerging as one of the best

By Kian Long

Arsenal's German goalkeeper Bernd Leno (R) dives to push the ball away from his goal during the English Premier League football match between Bournemouth and Arsenal at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth, southern England on November 25, 2018. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo credit should read GLYN KIRK/AFP/Getty Images)
Arsenal's German goalkeeper Bernd Leno (R) dives to push the ball away from his goal during the English Premier League football match between Bournemouth and Arsenal at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth, southern England on November 25, 2018. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo credit should read GLYN KIRK/AFP/Getty Images) /
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Yet again, Arsenal relied on Bernd Leno to pick up the points against Bournemouth.

It was a cagey affair for the Gunners but it was all down to their own doing. The defensive frailties which Arsenal has shown plenty of this season prevailed once again. However, when they needed him to most, it was Bernd Leno who came up with the goods.

He wasn’t called on as much as he was against Wolves, but whenever he needed to be solid, he was solid. Arsenal invited a lot of pressure, but the only time Leno was beaten was courtesy of a fine strike from Callum Wilson.

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Particularly towards the end of the match, Leno’s resilience between the sticks was important. The Germany international stuck to his guns and ensured that Bournemouth didn’t make the most of their mounting pressure.

If Cech was in goal, then it could have been a different tale. We all know how bad the veteran is with the ball at his feet, something which Leno excelled at today. He was involved in a few passing movements from the back, but Arsenal fans weren’t worried about it. In fact, there was a moment when he scooped the ball over Callum Wilson’s head to Sead Kolasinac which was rather appealing to watch.

When he signed from Bayer Leverkusen, many didn’t know what to think of him. He showed in Germany he’s prone to making mistakes, but so far with Arsenal, he’s made barely any. His form is good, something which the Gunners will hope continues.

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With the festive period fast approaching, Arsenal is known to crumble. And no, not the good kind of festive crumble. It’s important that Leno keeps up his good form between the sticks because Unai Emery wishes to capitalise on any of his rivals’ shortcomings.

Next. Bernd Leno is the ideal long-term option. dark

What do you make of Bernd Leno’s performances with Arsenal so far?

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