David Ospina made his league debut for Arsenal in the 3-0 win over Stoke City during the weekend.
This was largely seen as a statement of intent from the manager, Arsene Wenger, who is reportedly ready to sell first choice goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny after a series of discipline issues and poor form. The Polish international was at fault in Arsenal’s poor performance against Southampton at the St Mary stadium.
Despite being directly at fault for goal,Szczesny did not show any remorse later. He was even pictured smoking in the dressing room after the match.
Wenger did not talk much aboutSzczesny in the press conference prior to the match but he did confirm that the 24-year-old is likely to be fined around £ 20,000.Szczesny’s position at the club was under major doubt even at the start of the season, but the player has been able to redeem himself with some decent performances. Such disciplinary issues and the failure to apologise to his teammates for his mistake could see him finally depart Arsenal.Ospina was one of the stars of the World Cup 2014, but he has not featured regularly due to the presence of Szczesny. The Colombian could now be featuring regularly for the gunners.
“He [Ospina] deserved to play again. A good opportunity as well. Szczesny has played many games and to have a look at Ospina as well. Not discipline, no. You look only at form and performance and sometimes fatigue as well. Sometimes they [goalkeepers] need a breather as well,” said Wenger. Arsenal managed a comfortable 3-0 win over Stoke, who had managed to beat them 3-2 earlier in the season. This victory keeps Arsenal in touch with the race for the top four. They are now only one point behind Manchester United, who were defeated against Southampton.
