Arsenal: Aaron Ramsey, an Arsenal legend

Aaron Ramsey has now scored 50 Arsenal goals. A controversial figure, in my mind, he doesn’t get the credit he deserves for his accomplishments.

The inspiration for this article came in an unlikely form. Although I was there to witness Aaron Ramsey’s 50th Arsenal goal, it wasn’t until the feat was further discussed on an Arsecast Extra Podcast. If you haven’t already subscribed, go and do it, you’re missing out. Hosted by Andrew Mangan and James McNicholas, it is hands down the best Arsenal-related podcast.

Related Story: Arsenal: The One Stat That Shows Mesut Özil Is Challenging His Critics

Following our 2-1 comeback win against a mostly-resilient Swansea City, the hosts answered questions like they always do during the second part of their broadcast, and here is the question regarding Ramsey’s status that piqued my interest (58:45);

Ramsey now has 50 goals for the club, including winners in two FA Cups. Will he be remembered as an Arsenal legend? Will anyone else in the squad? (@MaxShilling)     

It’s certainly an interesting debate. I didn’t think about this at all during the match itself or indeed following the match. However, the more I think about it, the more I agree with Andrew and James. Aaron Ramsey is a Gunner legend.

The answers given by the pair to this question are perfect. They acknowledge the fact that Ramsey can be incredibly frustrating, but they also analyse the question with perspective.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

• 3 observations from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park
• 3 standout players from 1-0 victory over Everton
• 3 positives & negatives from Goodison Park victory
• Arsenal vs PSV preview: Prediction, team news & lineups
• 3 talking points from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park

When you look at the second decade of Arsene Wenger’s reign, Aaron Ramsey’s two FA Cup winning goals are undoubtedly the highlights. His goal against Hull City A.F.C. is arguably the highlight.

Fifty goals is no easy feat either. The only other central midfielder that I know in the modern era to have reached 50 goals with this club is Cesc Fàbregas, who managed 57 in 303 appearances. Eight of those fifty-seven were penalties. Upon inspection, I discovered that Ramsey has never taken a penalty for the Gunners.

McNicholas makes an astute comment when he says that Ramsey may become an even more central figure for this club in the coming months (1:03:40). While I don’t think he should replace Per Mertesacker as club captain, he may need to step up if/when Mesut Özil and Alexis leave.

Next: Arsenal: Shkodran Mustafi Absence Curiously Understated

While Aaron Ramsey still has the chance to build on his status, in my mind, he is already a Gunner legend. You cannot take those memorable moments away. They are forever entrenched in the memory.