Per Mertesacker says that Wojciech Szczesny’s loan spell could be good for him, and play a part in him returning to the club.

The Polish stopper is a popular figure in the Arsenal dressing room, and the BFG says the team would be happy for him to return after his season in Roma.

“Wojciech wants to compete,” he said. I think he’s a good goalkeeper and he can still develop.

“The team wants him back – that’s good for him. He’s shown great character already in this team and I think he has got a bright future.”

This week it emerged that Roma want to keep him at the end of the loan spell, with Szczesny not ruling out a move.

Speaking last week, he said, “My future will be decided after the European Championship. I love Arsenal, but I’m happy at Roma.

“I know that Roma want me, but I don’t see why Arsenal would not want me also. Garcia believes in me and so too do my teammates and the fans.

“Coming to Rome was the best choice. It’s best being a protagonist for the runners-up in Italy than sitting on the bench in England.

“Even Wenger thought it was the best thing for me.”