Almunia studies England option

Spanish shot-stopper considers international future

By James Dall   Last updated: 22nd August 2008

Football Manuel Almunia Arsenal

Almunia: England option

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Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia has reiterated to Sky Sports News that he would consider representing England at international level.

The 31-year-old, who signed for the Gunners from Celta in 2004, was born in Spain but would qualify for UK citizenship next year.

Almunia, who emerged as Arsenal's first-choice keeper last season, is aware that he is unlikely to feature for Spain and would therefore contemplate playing for England.

"Playing for England could be my only chance for international football," he told Sky Sports News.

"Spain have very, very good goalkeepers, therefore I have to take the chances I have to play in the best level.

"If playing for England is the only way to play in international matches then I will make my decision to have it or not."

Manuel Almunia was speaking at University College Hospital in London, where Arsenal announced their nomination of the Teenage Cancer Trust as their dedicated charity this season.