Arsenal keeper, David Ospina in action. PHOTO/File
LONDON, United Kingdom, Sep 14 – Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says ‘world class’ David Ospina is his first-choice goalkeeper for this season’s UEFA Champions League campaign.
Ospina has widely been criticized for the odd lapses of concentration during important fixtures, and after a shaky start against Paris Saint-Germain in Tuesday evening’s Group A opener – the Colombia international produced an impressive display.
The former Nice shot-stopper single-handedly kept Arsenal in the game at times, and on three separate occasions he denied Edison Cavani from point-blank range.
Wenger feels his decision to keep faith with the 28-year-old in goal has been vindicated as he tries to keep Petr Cech and Ospina happy with their shared responsibility between Europe and Premier League games.
“David Ospina did play very well,” Wenger said after the 1-1 draw with PSG. “Tonight he showed his detractors that he is a very good goalkeeper, those who doubted him.
“Last year he made a mistake in the Champions League and everyone jumped all over him. He showed what he’s about tonight.
“I have two world-class goalkeepers. I can give them both games. If they do not play, you can’t keep two world-class goalkeepers.
“We have a rule that the keepers know (when they will play). It’s important to have clear rules like that,” the Frenchman added. “They know what the rules are for the season. If they change, I’ll tell them.
“On what he delivered tonight, he has the right to stay in the team for the next Champions League game.”
