Wenger hails Ospina response

Arsene Wenger has praised David Ospina for his professional and committed response to Petr Cech’s arrival at the club. Ospina had a breakout season last year, winning the number one spot from Wojciech Szczesny and really making it his own with some outstanding performances.

He followed it up with some superb displays for his country in the Copa America this summer and was expected to kick on once more at club level. It wasn’t to be however as Arsenal completed the transfer of Petr Cech, with the vastly experience shot stopper going straight into the XI.

In most cases it would seem Ospina was hard done by, but the Colombian has taken it in stride. His boss has lauded the player’s spirit, saying the door hasn’t closed yet for him to win his place back.

“He’s responded very well,” the boss told the official Arsenal website. “David Ospina is a very strong man and a fantastic goalkeeper.”

“He’s ready for the fight and will give Petr Cech a hard time. There will be enough room for him to play games as well, maybe sometimes to come in during the season.”

“Why shouldn’t he be able to win his No 1 shirt back? That’s the target for him and I’m convinced he will fight for that.”

Good on Ospina to respond so positively, and he has shown he can be an asset to the side. Having a keeper of Ospina’s class waiting in the wings certainly does the team no harm, and strength in depth will be crucial for the squad going forward.