Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey reflects on season, injuries and progress

Aaron Ramsey says Arsenal will adopt a different approach in their big away games next season after learning some harsh lessons.
The Gunners’ title challenge came unstuck this term after damaging defeats at Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea.
Despite that, the Wales international has been encouraged by the progress the team has made - especially during a fine first six months of the campaign.

We came out of the blocks firing and were top of the league for long periods of the season.
Aaron Ramsey

“We got off to a really good start, that's something we had been lacking over the last few years,” Ramsey told Arsenal Player. “We came out of the blocks firing and were top of the league for long periods of the season.
“Everyone was really excited and looking forward to it, thinking that we've got a great opportunity. Unfortunately it wasn't to be. I think the results away from home against the so-called bigger teams have been damaging and that's what's cost us in the end.
“In all of those games we conceded early on and going to these places is difficult, never mind going a goal down [near the start]. I think it's important just to stay in the game and frustrate them.
“With the quality we have, we always know we can create opportunities. The main thing is just to stay in the game in the first half and it will open up a lot more in the second half - and hopefully we can take full advantage.
“I believe [we have made progress]. We had a great start to the season and a couple of hiccups after Christmas. Then we got back on track and finished off strong. I definitely think that we've taken a big step forward.”
Ramsey had a sensational season, scoring 16 times in all competitions, but was sidelined for three months with a thigh injury sustained on Boxing Day.
“It was really frustrating with what went on earlier in the season,” he said. “It was a bit gutting to miss out on any part of it, as I wanted a full season and I felt really good out there. It was hard to watch it from the sides but that's football and injuries happen.”