Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta singled out Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir as the “best player” on the pitch following his side’s disappointing FA Cup defeat.
The Gunners, despite dominating possession, were eliminated from the competition after a penalty shootout.
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Bayindir was a hero for United, saving a penalty from Martin Odegaard during normal time and another from Kai Havertz in the shootout.
Arteta acknowledged the impact of Bayindir’s performance, stating, “It’s football and a part of our execution is the goalkeeper who was probably the best player [today].
“It’s unbelievable. Obviously, you measure the performance and what we did in relation to the position, you-know, you deserve to win the game by a mile.
“But the reality is we are out and the only thing that’s going to be judged it that but internally I can’t.
“I love my players. I love our team and I love how good they are and what they do because in 1000 games, you should lose one and probably it was this one.
“You need things to go your way and tonight it didn’t. When you go to penalties you know that it’s a flick of the coin and it can go either way.”
The Turkish international, who has been playing second fiddle to Andre Onana this season, has proven his worth with a standout performance against Arsenal.
After the game Bayindir told BBC Sport: “If you are not playing it doesn’t matter. You have to be ready every minute, every second. If you are a Manchester United player you have to be ready always.
“I am working every day. I am patient. I just want to help this great team.
“I want to make everyone happy for this great club.”
