Jens expects Bolton return

Gunners keeper confident over place in side

By Peter O'Rourke   Last updated: 14th October 2007

Lehmann

Lehmann: Expectant

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Jens Lehmann says he expects to be back in the Arsenal side for next weekend's game with Bolton.

The experienced custodian has not played in Arsenal's last nine games because of injury.

Lehmann made a successful return to action for Germany on Saturday keeping a clean sheet in the goalless draw with Republic of Ireland as the Germans became the first side to book their place at next summer's Euro 2008 finals.

Manuel Almunia has impressed between the sticks for Arsenal in Lehmann's absence, keeping six clean sheets in nine games.

It has been suggested Lehmann had lost his No.1 spot to Almunia, but Lehmann has rubbished the claims and insists his absence was down to injury and that Arsene Wenger will restore him to the starting line-up next week against Bolton.

Felt good

"It was my first game after a couple of weeks and you never know how sharp you are and how focused and concentrated you are," Lehmann told Sky Sports News.

"I think I felt quite good and I performed quite well.

"I think I will play hopefully next week because I am fit now.

"I was injured, it was the first time since I am at Arsenal and I expect the boss to play me."

Return
Lehmann also ridiculed talk that he had been left out by Wenger after some indifferent displays this season.

Lehmann added: "Did you see me sitting on the bench once? I think some journalists are losing their intelligence about a couple of weeks.

"I have not spoken to him (Wenger) but I expect him to play me again, yes."