Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that Wojciech Szczesny's drive to regain a first-team spot reminded him of Jens Lehmann.
Szczesny was dropped during the second half of last season after an indifferent run of form, with compatriot Lukasz Fabianski enjoying an extended spell in the side.
Wenger believes that a number of factors affected Szczesny's form, including a frustrating time for Poland in last summer's European Championships, but is adamant that he never doubted the stopper's quality.
He told The Mirror: "He reminds me of Lehmann and I gave him Lehmann as an example. When I dropped Lehmann, he told me, 'I will force you to play me again.' Wojciech didn't say the same, but came back well.
"His dad didn't accept the decision. And that wasn't a surprise. It can be an advantage if your father has done the same job, but also a disadvantage, can he be really objective in his judgement? I think the fact Wojciech was dropped last year, that is always a sign.
"I was always convinced that Szczesny would make it. I rate highly Fabianski. People forget that at 23 years old Szczesny is like being 18 for an outfield player. He played two Premier League season, you would think he can only go up."
Szczensy has been ever-present for Arsenal in the Premier League this season, a run which is expected to continue this weekend when Norwich City visit the Emirates Stadium.
Liam Power
