Unai Emery admitted he has been surprised at the criticism of Petr Cech this season after the goalkeeper produced a high profile performance against Everton.
Cech’s position as No.1 at the club has been questioned after the arrival of Bernd Leno, with many expecting Emery to immediately hand his summer signing a starting place.
But Emery chose Cech , who made a string of important saves in a 2-0 win over Everton.
‘I’m a little surprised because there have been a lot of questions over Cech,’ Emery said after game against Everton. ‘In pre-season and also in the first (league) matches with us, he’s played with good performances. Bernd Leno will also improve with us and learn about this competition here. ‘Petr has big experience and big quality. He’s started the season very well and we think he’s giving us the performance we want.
‘Today he showed us that he’s very good and continuing to work hard with this spirit every day.’