The Arsenal manager still considers his former left-back
as a key performer on the biggest stage before admitting Mesut Ozil is in need
of a break over the busy festive schedule.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admits he is
"surprised" Ashley Cole is not a regular starter for Chelsea this
season.
The England international has enjoyed significant success
at Stamford Bridge since departing Arsenal in 2006, winning the Premier League
and Champions League as well as the FA Cup on four occasions.
However, Cole has found himself
on the periphery in recent weeks, with Jose Mourinho preferring Cesar
Azpilicueta, but Wenger feels the 33-year-old is still a man for big occasions.
"Yes, it is a surprise to me that Ashley has been
left out by Chelsea," Wenger is quoted as saying by the Daily Mirror.
"I still see Ashley sometimes in big games; he can
produce great performances still.
"I don't know whether he is still England's best
left-back. My name is not Roy Hodgson."
Arsenal take on Chelsea on Monday, with Wenger conceding
Mesut Ozil will require a rest at some stage having been accustomed to winter
breaks in Germany and Spain.
Ozil will feature against Mourinho's men as Arsenal seek
to move back to the top of the Premier League table.
"[Ozil] wouldn't be used to playing at this time of
year," Wenger added. "In Germany they have a big Christmas break, and
also in Spain.
"At some stage, I will have to give him a break, but
not on Monday night. Ozil has played a lot, but we've had a little breather and
hopefully he has now recovered."
Culled from Goal
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