Aaron Ramsdale has named Jamie Vardy as his toughest opponent ever faced in his career.

The Arsenal goalkeeper is approaching a century of Premier League appearances across his stints with three clubs, and has faced some real world-class players in his 97 top-flight matches.

However, when asked who he hates playing the most, he overlooked other Premier League stars like Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo, Tottenham’s star striker Harry Kane and Liverpool wideman Mohamed Salah.

Instead, he named Leicester striker Vardy – and claimed it’s his determination and work ethic that makes the veteran so tough to face.

He said: ‘The one I hate playing against most is Jamie Vardy.

‘The guy just doesn’t stop running.

‘I’d love to have him on my team, hate playing against him.

‘I’ve played against him five times now, he’s scored four times.’

Ramsdale was relegated twice in successive seasons for Bournemouth and then Sheffield United – although he impressed in both campaigns – before the Gunners splashed out £30million to bring him to the Emirates this summer.

He was initially expected to act as back-up to incumbent No 1 Bernd Leno, but has overtaken the German in the pecking order, and is now clear first-choice for Mikel Arteta’s side, as well as challenging Jordan Pickford for the England jersey.

In October, Ramsdale was superb as Arsenal held off Leicester 2-0, keeping a clean sheet against Vardy et al.

The 23-year-old will hope to pull off the same feat in his next match on Sunday, against Brendan Rodgers’ men.