Gunners legend David Seaman has been speaking exclusively with Arsenal reporter Layth Yousif at the London Football Awards, in aid of national charity, Willow before the North London derby on Saturday. Read on for his take on Bernd Leno and Petr Cech.

Ahead of the eagerly-awaited North London derby at Wembley on Saturday Arsenal legend David Seaman has been speaking about the goalkeeping situation at the club.

The popular Seaman who lifted three league championships, four FA Cups, the League Cup and the European Cup Winners Cup hailed keeper Bernd Leno ahead of the vital clash.

Arsenal’s form has been mixed since the end of 2018, but Emery’s side are putting together a good run of form since losing 3-1 to Manchester City in early February.

The Gunners thrashed Bournemouth 5-1 on Wednesday, after beating Southampton and BATE Borisov

A dependable goalkeeper is very much part of the Gunners strategy as they covet a top four finish and a place back at the top table of the Champions League.

After dropping out of the title race, Spurs’ hold on a top-four place suddenly doesn’t look as strong with in-form Arsenal approaching.

And Seaman believes Leno has a vital role to play against the Lillywhites and for the rest of the season.

Speaking exclusively with Arsenal reporter Layth at the London Football Awards, in aid of national charity, Willow Seaman told the Gazette: “At the moment Leno’s doing really well because if he makes a mistake he’ll forget about it and do his best to put on a good performance afterwards.

“That shows to be he’s got the potential to become a really good goalkeeper because I can see how much more he’s got to give.”

Seaman also admitted he was surprised at Cech’s announcement he was to retire at the end of the season.

Cech, who announced in January he would be quitting football after an illustrious career, lost his place in Unai Emery’s Arsenal side to German goalkeeper Leno, and will be on the bench at the weekend.

Victory at the national stadium on Saturday lunchtime for Emery’s side would see them close to within one point of their bitter rivals from the other end of the Seven Sisters Road – with a strong defence the key to keeping out the home side.

Seaman said of Cech’s decision to quit: “I thought it was a little bit early. He’s only 36. I was surprised as he’s still producing quality.

“He knows in his own head when he’s ready to retire. I had that feeling. But I had that feeling when I was 40 not 36.

“I was ready for it. He knows his own mind. He knows his own body. And that’s a real indicator. You know as a keeper when you’re ready to call it a day. From little injuries and little niggles to getting up every day for training.

“For a goalkeeper that’s the hardest part: the training. Sometimes matches aren’t hard for goalkeepers – it’s the training that’s harder.”

Follow Arsenal reporter Layth on Twitter @laythy29