Matt Turner has been handed a place in Arsenal's starting line-up for their Europa League last-16 first leg against Sporting CP by Mikel Arteta.
The goalkeeper replaces Aaron Ramsdale behind the Gunners' defence as Arteta’s side look to take an aggregate lead back to north London next week. Arsenal's trip to the Estadio Jose Alvalade provides Arteta an opportunity to hand much-needed rests to his star players ahead of a hectic end-of-season schedule.
Six changes were made in total by the Arsenal boss, with January signing Jakub Kiwior earning his first start for the club while Italian midfielder Jorginho returned to the midfield.
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Turner makes only his seventh appearance for the Gunners since his summer arrival from New England Revolution. Ramsdale's colossal displays in goal have limited his opportunities in England - with Turneryet to make an appearance in the Premier League.
The 28-year-old started in the opening four of Arsenal's Europa League group fixtures, keeping four clean sheets against FC Zurich, Bodo/Glimt and PSV Eindhoven. Ramsdale was selected in the final two games for the defeat at PSV and crucial win over Zurich.
Turner's other two appearances have come in the FA Cup. However, Arsenal's exit in the fourth round at the hands of Man City has meant opportunities have been restricted for Turner until the return of European football.
Despite Turner's lack of minutes in England, Arteta has been full of praise for the USMNT goalkeeper this season. After the 3-0 win over Bodo/Glimt in October, Arteta said: "He's improving, he's getting better, obviously we're asking him different things from what other managers have asked him to do.
"He was much better in the first half than in the second half in my opinion. We could have had some more control.
“But I think he was phenomenal in the goal in situations especially when defending the area in behind the centre halves, and in the one-against-one situations he was really good.”
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