You could say that Arsenal were lucky to come away from Paris with a point when we faced PSG in the Champions League back in September, although many will point to fact that their Uruguayan international striker Edinson Cavani and all the chances he missed was the main reason for them not sealing the win before Alexis Sanchez pulled us level.
One player who did not deserve to only get a draw from that match was the French club’s right back Serge Aurier, who was heavily linked with a transfer to Arsenal before signing for PSG. The Ivorian terrorised our left flank that day and so he was one of the danger men to look out for as we prepare for the home tie tomorrow.
Not any more though, and the Ligue 1 champions are fuming after the UK Home Office has decided not to allow Aurier to enter the country because he was found guilty of assaulting a police officer recently, the Daily Mail reports.
A PSG statement reads, ‘Due to a sudden about-face by the British authorities, Serge Aurier has not been allowed to travel with Unai Emery’s squad for the clash away to Arsenal. Paris Saint-Germain is stunned by this incomprehensible situation that attacks the very integrity of the UEFA Champions League.’
Does it really? Their argument is that Aurier has appealed his conviction and so should be presumed innocent but whatever their argument is they are going to have to get on and face the Gunners without this key player. Will this mean that Arsenal have the edge?
Bob.