UCL: Bayern Munich v Arsenal preview

Sergio Aguero came off the bench to score

Arsene Wenger has confirmed he will stick with goalkeeper David Ospina for Arsenal's Champions League round-of-16 first-leg clash with Bayern Munich on Wednesday night.

The Colombian featured in all six group matches earlier in the season and Wenger is sticking with the 28-year-old ahead of Petr Cech.

Mesut Ozil's place in Arsenal's starting line-up has also been question as he travels to the Allianz Arena with the rest of Arsenal's squad on the back of manager Arsene Wenger questioning his confidence after Saturday's 2-0 win over Hull.

The 28-year-old has not scored for the Gunners since December 10 and has been accused of being on the periphery of games in recent weeks. That led to Wenger claiming he was suffering with his self-belief and reports that Ozil could be dropped for the round-of-16 tie.

 

However, Bayern Munich defender Mats Hummels, who is team-mate of Ozil's with Germany, expects his compatriot to start, even if he hopes Arsenal's club-record signing endures a poor evening.

"For me it was a surprise that Mesut is doubtful to play," said the Bayern defender. "He is a world-class player and someone who is always put on the field. I think he will be on the pitch tomorrow from the first minute because he is a class player."

 

Bayern can count on Xabi Alonso after the Spanish midfielder recovered from a knock to the knee that had forced him out of training on Monday.

But Ancelotti seems set to be without central defender Jerome Boateng and winger Franck Ribery, both of whom trained alone in the run-up to the game following recent injuries of their own.

 

Lucas Perez (hamstring) has not travelled as he joins Aaron Ramsey (calf) and Santi Cazorla (Achilles) on the sidelines.

Granit Xhaka, who has been suspended domestically, returns to the squad as does fit again defender Per Mertesacker.