Wojciech Szczesny can be one of the world's best, says Arsene Wenger

Safe hands: Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny
11 April 2012

Arsene Wenger believes Wojciech Szczesny can become one of the game's top goalkeepers but has work to do to fulfil his potential.

The 21-year-old Pole has established himself as Arsenal's No1 this season, with a series of fine performances demonstrating the talent and the temperament to succeed at the highest level.

The goalkeeping position had been a problem for the Gunners, with Manuel Almunia, Lukasz Fabianski and Vito Mannone all struggling to impress, but Szczesny has brought some much-needed stability at the back.

Arsenal boss Wenger said: "He is one of the best already in his first season from the start. Like the team, he has a promising future.

"We are confident he can be one of the best if he keeps his attitude and determination to do well. I wouldn't like to put too much pressure on him. He shouldn't set any limitations on his progress and I am confident that he can let other people judge how good he is.

"I have shown with my decisions that I am a great believer in Wojciech.

"The rest, how far he can go, I wouldn't like to predict. That is what a career is all about.

"He is brave and that's an important quality. You can make the goal small and yourself big. That's another important quality for a goalkeeper.

"He is just at the start of his career, though, and you do not want to say too early that he is the finished article.

"As soon as you lose that sharpness to improve you are in trouble, no matter how young you are.

"That's why I would just tell him, 'keep your attitude and you will have a bright future'."

Wenger revealed he may be forced into the transfer market for a full-back if Kieran Gibbs is out for a long time following a setback on his recovery from a stomach problem.

Spaniard Ignasi Miquel is set to make his first Premier League start at Aston Villa tonight, where he deputises at left-back, but midfielder Alex Song misses out after collecting five bookings this season.

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