Anyone hoping that Petr Cech would be brought in for what is now the most important competition of the season will be disappointed.

Speaking after the game against Stoke on Sunday, Wenger said that the Czech’s groin problem, which kept him out of the win against the Potters, is likely to leave him ‘short’ for Thursday. Although he was back in training on Wednesday and Wenger said he is now available, he is unlikely to start.

Ospina probably would have started without Cech’s fitness problems.

Wenger likes to stick with his cup keepers in the cup regardless of what the best option is. I wish he wouldn’t.

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