William Saliba has spoken about the value he places on keeping clean sheets, in comments that will please Arsenal supporters.
The centre-back re-joined Saint-Etienne on a season-long loan deal after signing for the Gunners in the summer.
Despite suffering a fractured metatarsal which has kept him out since November, Saliba returned to action for Les Verts on Tuesday night as they travelled to Monaco in the round of 16 in the French Cup.
His presence in the backline was enough to inspire a 1-0 victory at the Stade Louis II, and speaking after the game, Saliba said: “We were lucky to take the lead in the first half.
"Then we played against a very good Monaco side, they had many chances but we managed to be very strong defensively speaking.
"We could’ve potentially scored a second goal, but tonight we will keep in mind the victory and it is a deserved one."
When asked about his verdict on his comeback and the satisfaction he receives from keeping a clean sheet, he said: “Oh yes, that’s certain, to me it is as if I had scored a goal.
"Clean sheets are important so we are going to try to have as many as possible. Above all, we will try not to lose.”
Saliba is due to return to Arsenal at the end of the season, and is set to be a vital part of Mikel Arteta's future plans.
The French teenager could well partner new signing Pablo Mari next year, after the Spaniard's loan deal was confirmed on Wednesday.
Mari joins Arsenal from Flamengo until the end of the season, but the Gunners have an option to make the deal permanent.
"I’m happy to be here today and to have signed for a big club. I’m going to do my best to help my team-mates and the club," Mari told Arsenal's official website.
"I was pleased. When I spoke to my agent, it was a big thing that Arsenal were interested in me. This is one of the best clubs in the world, so I’m absolutely delighted to be joining.
"I’m really looking forward to playing in this jersey and helping my team."
