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Football London
Football London
Sport
Tashan Deniran-Alleyne

Arsenal fans love what Emiliano Martinez did on his Aston Villa debut after £20m transfer

Emiliano Martinez has made an instant impact on his Aston Villa debut.

The goalkeeper, who impressed in Bernd Leno's absence at Arsenal towards the end of last season, completed his move to Villa Park last week in a deal that could see his former club pocket £20m.

And on the day the Gunners announced Alex Runarsson as the Argentine's replacement, Martinez was making his bow for his new club.

Mikel Arteta on Alexandre Lacazette's future and midfield transfers

Starting in between the sticks as Villa got their 2020/21 season underway at home to Sheffield United, it was certainly an eventful start to the game.

After just 12 minutes the visitors were reduced to 10-men after John Egan was given his marching orders.

But there was to be even more drama 10 minutes before the break as the Blades were given a chance to break the deadlock from the penalty spot.

Midfielder John Lundstram placed the ball down, only to have his effort superbly saved by Martinez.

Not only did he keep the penalty out, but he pushed the ball away for a corner and was swiftly applauded by his new Villa teammates.

Of course, Martinez's penalty save has brought out a massive response from Arsenal fans on social media.

Take a look at what's been said on Twitter...

Upon leaving Arsenal, Martinez had an emotional farewell message for the club, fans and staff.

"I always had that feeling that I would have my chance here at Arsenal, that season after season I was always trying to come back to the club I love to have my chance," he said.

"I done it, I waited, I overcome the frustration because football is not always easy like everyone things."

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