Brad Friedel has advised Matt Turner to consider leaving Arsenal due to his lack of playing time. Friedel suggested that Turner needs to find consistent football elsewhere in order to remain the number one goalkeeper for the US national team. He noted that Turner is on a long contract, which may make it difficult for Arsenal to let him go.
Brad Friedel, the long-time US national team goalkeeperi, believes young Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Turner should consider leaving the Premier League club due to his lack of playing time with the team.
Speaking on a podcast with former Premier League goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, Friedel discussed the importance of Turner playing consistent minutes to ensure he remains the number one goalkeeper for the US national team.
The former Tottenham and Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper explains: “Matt has a long contract with Arsenal, so it’s going to be very difficult for him to be released. But he needs games at his age, especially to be the number one goalkeeper for the US. I’m sure he is training every day and continuing to learn, but he needs game minutes – that’s absolutely critical at his age.”
With Turner playing second fiddle to experienced stopper Bernd Leno at the Emirates, Friedel believes leaving the club may be the best decision for the Florida-born goalkeeper if he is to maintain the number one spot for the US.
The need for regular playing time is key for any young player hoping to make an impact at the top level, and it appears this may be something Turner must address if he is to continue his development.
Only time will tell if Turner takes Friedel’s advice, but one thing is certain; if he is to continue as the number one goalkeeper for the US, consistent minutes at club level is a necessity.
