Aaron Ramsey doubt for Wembley, Mesut Ozil "should be ok"
Wednesday 21 February 2018 18:12, UK
Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina will start against Manchester City in Sunday's EFL Cup final, Arsene Wenger has confirmed.
Aaron Ramsey (groin) remains a doubt for the game at Wembley despite returning to training this week, while Mesut Ozil "should be ok" for the final having suffered with sickness.
Both midfielders will not play against Ostersunds in Arsenal's Europa League last-32 second leg on Thursday, but Ospina will remain in goal for all cup fixtures.
"It's always difficult decisions but we are always clear about that since the start of the season," said Wenger after confirming Ospina's position in goal ahead of Petr Cech.
"I have two world-class goalkeepers and I decided from early on to have clarity in the games we play, so I will maintain that."
Arsenal have a three-goal aggregate lead over Ostersunds, but Wenger insisted Ozil would have featured in the home leg at the Emirates if he was fully fit.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan, cup-tied for Sunday's final against City because of his involvement for Manchester United earlier this season, will play in the Europa League, along with Danny Welbeck.
"Mesut was sick until Wednesday," said Wenger. "That's why I would certainly have played him. He should be ok for Sunday."
Wenger confirmed Alexandre Lacazette is recovering well from his knee injury and could return within four weeks, while Ramsey will be monitored ahead of a decision over whether he plays in Sunday's EFL Cup final.
"He had a good training session but he's a bit short for tomorrow [against Ostersunds]," said Wenger.
"We'll see how his evolution goes from now until Sunday, I don't rule him out yet, it depends how well he improves."
