Wojciech Szczesny says he is 'not friends' with David Ospina and he will fight to keep his place as Arsenal's No 1 goalkeeper

The two 'keepers  will battle for position in Wenger's starting XI

James Orr
Friday 05 September 2014 14:44 BST
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Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has warned recent signing David Ospina that he does not intend to lose his place as the Gunners No 1 anytime soon, and they are "not friends".

Ospina was signed from Nice over the summer after a fine World Cup for Colombia, and will challenge the Polish stopper for the place in Arsene Wenger's starting XI.

Szczesny, who started 37 matches Premier League last season, kept his position in recent seasons despite compatriot Lukasz Fabianski breathing down his neck. Fabianski has since left to join Swansea, and is now the Swans' No 1 goalkeeper.

"I know Ospina's ambitions don't end at sitting on the bench and clapping his hands while watching me play," Szczesny told Polish news outlet Przeglad Sportowy.

"He is a nice guy. In a sporting sense, he is a suitable player at a suitable club. But it's easier for me just in one aspect: I do not feel sorry for him. I do not think ‘he’s my friend’ as I thought about Fabian [Fabianski]. I was convinced Lukasz deserved to play but not at my expense."

Szczesny kept 16 clean sheets in the Premier League last season to earn the Golden Glove trophy.

"When I have a bad day I look at the Golden Glove award and feel better straight away," he revealed.

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