Thomas Frank: Arsenal star David Raya has three 'weapons' that are 'exceptional'

Arsenal continued their perfect start to the new Premier League season with a 2-0 win away at Sunderland on Saturday night.

A wonder strike from Bruno Guimaraes and a late penalty from Bukayo Saka secured the points for the visitors, who also notched their third clean sheet of the season.

Mikel Arteta's side have picked up where they left off after last season's title victory, but their game at the Stadium of Light could easily have been very different.

The hosts had the perfect chance to take the lead in the 56th minute, but Enzo Le Fee's penalty was superbly saved by goalkeeper David Raya.

The Spain international dived down to his left-hand side and produced a strong hand to turn the ball away from the bottom corner and keep his side on level terms.

It proved to be a decisive moment in the clash, as Guimaraes stepped up to hand the Gunners the advantage just two minutes later.

Thomas Frank heaps praise on David Raya

Raya has received plenty of plaudits in recent years, and those who have worked closely with him know firsthand just how good a goalkeeper he is.

Thomas Frank worked with the 30-year-old for five years during their time together at Brentford, and he was delighted by what he saw from him on Saturday night.

The former Tottenham boss featured on Match of the Day, and was full of praise for his former player for both his penalty save and his distribution.

The Dane made it clear that he feels Raya is a world-class gloveman, a view which is shared by many around the Premier League.

"This penalty save is exceptional; how quickly he gets down there and with a strong hand, that's a world-class save," Frank said.

"He sees the game very quickly, and he has an exceptional both throw and kick, which is just an extra weapon to start an offensive transition.

"Over the years, he's got better and better with his decisions with his feet. For me, he has had a fantastic development and his mentality is so good.

"He's the best 'keeper in the Premier League and probably one of the best in the world."

Mikel Arteta wants Barcelona job

Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness told Football Insider earlier this week that Arsenal remain "confident" that they can tie Arteta down to a new contract.

The Spanish boss is out of contract at the end of the season, but talks are ongoing over a new deal, which is expected to be signed unless any unforeseen snags emerge.

However, Wyness has warned the Gunners that if they do not get the issue sorted before January, then their chief is bound to receive significant interest from Europe's top clubs.

Barcelona are strong admirers of Arteta's ability, and a return to the club where he spent his formative years as a player is likely to appeal to him.