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Arsenal vs Southampton: David Ospina can't wait for Gunners debut at 'perfect' Emirates

Colombian keeper set for first start after summer move from Nice

Tom Sheen
Tuesday 23 September 2014 17:51 BST
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David Ospina
David Ospina (Getty Images)

David Ospina is relishing his Arsenal debut in the Capital One Cup against Southampton tonight.

The Colombian goalkeeper is set to make his Gunners bow after a summer transfer from Ligue 1 club Nice, with Arsene Wenger expected to make a number of changes, like he usually does in this competition.

Ospina, who played every Colombia match at the World Cup in Brazil, is also looking forward to playing at the Emirates.

"I would say that the club has a perfect football stadium. I’ve already been down there on the pitch," he told Arsenal Player.

"It would definitely be more special [to make my debut at home]. If I made my first appearance in front of our crowd it would be a dream come true because the atmosphere at the Emirates is extraordinary.

"In fact, that experience may help me understand how it would be like to defend Arsenal’s goal in the home games."

Despite his experience at international level, the 26-year-old says he has to adapt to the English style of football.

"Every person I’ve had advice from remarks that English games have a lot of intensity.

"Games are very quick and direct. As a result, there are many set-pieces and the ball is crossing the air very frequently. I am trying to adapt to this style as soon as possible."

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