Bernd Leno insists he respects Petr Cech very much but would happily replace the veteran keeper in the goal in the Europa League final against Chelsea.
The legendary shot stopper is all set to bid adieu to football and could lead Arsenal to a major trophy as he is expected to get the nod ahead of Leno. Cech has mostly been the preferred choice in this competition while summer arrival Leno has mostly played his part in the Premier League.
The Gunners finished outside of the top four and need to get the better of their London rivals in a bid to compete in the Champions League next season.
Leno said, “In the Premier League it’s clear that I’m the number one. In the Europa League, Petr Cech has almost always played.
“That’s normal here in England and by some clubs it’s the same in the cup. I prepare the same way as normal, as if I’m going to play. But you also need to be prepared for the coach to say: “No, it’s the last game in (Cech’s) career.”
“You have to accept that. But it still isn’t clear who will play. Either way, I just hope we win, no matter who is in goal.”
“I have great respect for Petr Cech and we get along really well. He deserves any and all recognition.
“Still, I’m a professional sportsman, I always want to play, especially in a final. It would be the completely wrong time to have a guilty conscience.
“It’s a huge game for Arsenal, I absolutely wouldn’t say: ‘I’d rather not play.’ I’m pumped to play, that’s my mindset.”
