Martin Keown has expressed his surprise at Noni Madueke's impact at Arsenal, hailing the winger as a key figure in the club's Premier League title triumph. The 24-year-old scored the decisive goal in Arsenal's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on Sunday, sealing an 85-point season and ending the club's 22-year wait for the league title.
Speaking after the match, Keown addressed Madueke directly, admitting initial doubts from fans but praising the former Chelsea player's contribution. 'Noni, you surprised me the most,' Keown said. 'Remember at the beginning I said one or two of the fans weren't sure. But you've done an incredible job. You're now going to a World Cup, you've won the Premier League. You've now really made a mark at this football club already.'
Madueke, who has earned a place in England's World Cup squad, responded by calling the season a 'dream come true'. He credited the team's depth, saying: 'It's a team where you can put anyone in and perform to a really high level.' The winger also vowed to improve, adding: 'Obviously it's my first season, next season will be better.'
Manager Mikel Arteta has already warned his squad about the responsibility of being champions. 'What I said to the boys is that this shirt now represents something else,' Arteta revealed. 'We are the champions and that brings a lot of confidence and a different kind of presence and energy. But as well another kind of responsibility.'
With Arsenal planning to invest in the summer, the club appears determined to build on this success. Josh Kroenke has confirmed transfer plans, while Arteta stressed the need to 'live those standards now and achieve more'.
