'A class act': Fans are loving Aaron Ramsdale's reaction to being asked about spending the entirety of Euro 2024 on the bench - and praise Gareth Southgate for England's mentality

• e-mail

Aaron Ramsdale is earning the respect of fans as he opens up about what it's been like as England's number two goalkeeper.

With England playing the Euro 2024 final against Spain in Berlin today, Ramsdale has been reflecting on his time within the England squad, and has been praised for his uniquely refreshing perspective by fans.

Ramsdale said the Euros have been an overwhelmingly positive experience, despite not having played a single minute of a game – something unlikely to change given England number one, Jordan Pickford's blistering form.

The 26-year-old remained sanguine when asked what his experience has been like. He summed it up by saying: 'Out of a population in England of 60 million or whatever it is, I'm living all of their dreams. 

'And then there is one man living my dream on the pitch, and that one person is doing a hell of a job.' 

Fans have praised England number two Aaron Ramsdale's attitude throughout Euro 2024

Ramsdale (left) has been England's second-choice keeper to Jordan Pickford (right)

His attitude is a great example of the unity Southgate has built within the squad, and a reflection of his own optimism at club level, after spending most of last season at  Arsenal, as backup to David Raya.

'It was tough [being on the bench for Arsenal], it was tough. But I have my release now, I'm now here,' he said. 'I've got the greatest honour, the greatest badge on my chest. If I play a minute or no minutes, it will be the pinnacle for me.' 

Fans on social media have been quick to react to Ramsdale's comments, praising his spirit and humility. 'That's actually brilliant,' one said.

Another praise both Ramsdale and Southgate: 'The mentality in this England side is genuinely one of such cohesion, it's beautiful to see. On this score, Southgate deserves praise.'

A third said: 'Seems like a nice fella. He will naturally be envious but he genuinely seems made up for Pickford.'

And a fifth: 'What a lovely mentality that is.' 

But despite not having a minute of match time, Ramsdale remains positive

Fans have recognised his genuine enthusiasm for teammate Jordan Pickford

Others have praised the unity England Manager Gareth Southgate has built within the squad

And it appears Ramsdale is also a man of the people – ahead of their Euro 2024 opener back in June, he urged the government to declare a week-long national holiday if football did indeed come home.

Speaking on YouTube channel, That's Football, Ramsdale said: 'It has got to be a national holiday hasn't it... for a week, because nobody is working.'