Arsene Wenger insists Wojciech Szczesny was NOT dropped for smoking in Arsenal’s dressing room after the defeat to Southampton on New Year’s Day.
The Polish keeper had a dreadful game against Ronald Koeman’s side on the turn of the year, seeing his place taken by David Ospina in the following 2-0 win over Hull City in the FA Cup third round.
And, the Colombian international kept his place as Arsenal hosted Stoke City on Sunday afternoon.
However, Arsenal boss Wenger has insisted that he did not drop the Polish international over a recent smoking incident.
“He [Ospina] deserved to play again,” Wenger told Sky Sports.
“A good opportunity as well. Szczesny has played many games and to have a look at Ospina as well. Not discipline, no.
“You look only at form and performance and sometimes fatigue as well. Sometimes they [goalkeepers] need a breather as well.”