Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has admitted that being dropped from the side last season has helped him become more confident.
The Poland international has been in fine form for the Gunners, keeping 11 clean sheets so far this season.
The shot-stopper believes that being dropped for Champions League tie at Bayern Munich in March was the turning point in his career as it gave him a break from the pressure.
"It is hard to tell because I don't know what it would have been like if I wasn't dropped, but looking at my own performances now it must have been a good decision from the manager because I feel better, I feel sharper and more confident in myself," Szczesny told the Arsenal magazine.
"That little break away from the pressure meant that I could focus on my training to come back sharper, and so far it has worked out pretty well.
"I think I am very consistent now, I am a little bit more mature and the back four are helping me out as well, so I would say it is the most consistent run of my career - but there is still a lot of room for improvement."
Szczesny is likely to start in Monday night's clash against Chelsea.
Sam Hughes
