David Ospina has revealed that he is staying at Arsenal, with the intention of challenging Petr Cech for a first-team role.
The Colombian international had been strongly linked with the exit door this summer, with Turkey touted as a possible destination, but he now looks destined to stay put and fight for his place.
Ospina played in much of last season’s FA Cup campaign, including the final win over Chelsea at Wembley, and now seems eager to play more regularly for the club this term.
The shot-stopper said: “I have a contract here, I’m happy and I’m going to fight to the end, I want to continue and win a job.
“That’s what I’m working for, I’ve been working for three years and now I’m waiting for the opportunity.”
At 35, Cech is moving towards the end of his career, with his best days most likely behind him, and with a number of suspect performances having been witnessed last term, Ospina may well have a shout.
Emiliano Martinez also did well when deputising for the duo on occasions last season, and he was also praised by Arsene Wenger for his ability during the previous campaign, and he could well try and stake his own claim for more regular action.
There is talk of a possible loan deal for the Argentine goalkeeper, who at 24 still has plenty to learn when experience comes into it.
Should Ospina begin the season on equal terms as Cech, or even as our first-choice? Can Martinez also stay and challenge the pair?