“He Kept Us In The Game” – Arsene Wenger Reserves Special Praise For Gunners Star

Petr Cech was in outstanding form against Red Star…

Arsene Wenger hailed Petr Cech’s display in our Europa League win over Red Star Belgrade after the shot-stopper pulled off some impressive saves to relieve some early pressure from the hosts.

Red Star executed a few counter-attacks in the early exchanges, with Cech coming out on top on a number of occasions to keep the scores level.

However, Cech also had the crossbar to thank with the Serbian side inches away from taking the lead which would’ve really put us on the backfoot.

Cech’s inclusion in this competition came due to David Ospina’s injury, with the Colombian usually our choice between the sticks in the cup competitions.

“Of course, it’s important to have a good goalkeeper in this kind of game,” Wenger said after the game.

“They came out very quickly on the counter-attack and sometimes when we lost the ball in an unexpected way they were dangerous.

“Petr Cech kept us in the game.”

Cech’s form this season has certainly improved after an indifferent campaign last term and with his contract up in less than 24 months, thoughts will certainly start to turn to whether or not he needs replacing.

Having an elite goalkeeper is of paramount importance for any club attempting to challenge for the league, and Cech is slowly dropping the list of top No.1’s in the league.

However, performances akin to what he produced in Belgrade will certainly remind many of his capabilities.

source: ESPN FC