It was almost a debut to remember for Takehiro Tomiyasu on Saturday.
Not only did he keep a clean sheet in Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Norwich but a thunderous volley from the deadline-day summer signing from Bologna almost got on the scoresheet himself.
Though the effort at the stroke of half-time went just over the bar, it was the sign of a player brimming with confidence that he even took it on in the first place.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright said it was a “fantastic debut” on Match of the Day and fans took to social media to agree with that opinion.
Tomiyasu said himself it was “a special day for me. I was happy to play [in] front of amazing Arsenal supporters in Emirates Stadium.”
Though he didn’t complete the 90 minutes, the 60 minutes he did play was enough for everyone to see how bright a future he has at the Emirates Stadium.
Manager Mikel Arteta echoed the sentiments of the fans, saying after the match: “Really positive. That’s the first impression when we met him, it’s all joy happiness, smiles and good energy. The moment he steps on the pitch, he’s really focused and determined. He understands the role really well and I think he was really good.”
Right back has been a problem position recently for the club, with long-term starter Hector Bellerin leaving the club on loan to join Real Betis and Cedric being unable to cement the starting role.
