Lehmann protests innocence

Arsenal man rejects gesture rumours

Last updated: 18th November 2007

Lehmann protests innocence

Lehmann: Denial

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Germany goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has denied making an insulting gesture to fans during the team's 4-0 win over Cyprus.

German media suggested TV pictures which showed Lehmann scratching his head with a middle finger might have been a gesture aimed at fans, who were chanting for Hannover goalkeeper Robert Enke to come on.

The Arsenal custodian has rejected the claims, insisting he never made a gesture to the supporters.

Nonsense

"It's nonsense," said Lehmann. "I've never done anything like that in my life."

German Football Association president Theo Zwanziger backed Lehmann in the row, saying: "I will stand up for him here.

"He knows there's no reason to make gestures that could hurt fans. I know he respects the fans."

Meanwhile, Germany coach Joachim Low has confirmed he will meet with Lehmann to discuss his future at Arsenal.

Low has warned Lehmann his place could be under threat if he is not playing regularly for his club and he will talk through the player's options in the next few days.

"Jens knows that it isn't so simple to start someone at a tournament who hasn't played for eight or nine months," said Low.