Almunia unaffected by jibes

Arsenal goalkeeper unconcerned by team-mate's criticism

By Robin Hackett   Last updated: 24th October 2007

Almunia unaffected by jibes

Almunia: Positive

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Manuel Almunia has responded to recent criticism from Arsenal team-mate Jens Lehmann by insisting he does not listen to what other people say about him as it would make him 'turn crazy'.

Almunia has become first choice at Emirates Stadium despite Lehmann's return to fitness, leading the Germany international to suggest the Spaniard has not yet proved he can win games for the club and that he will not be able to handle the pressure at the top.

But Almunia has been in fine form for The Gunners this season, keeping clean sheets in nine of the 12 games he has started, and he says that - after making only 11 league appearances for Arsenal prior to this season - he just wants to concentrate on making the most of the opportunity.

"I will stay positive," he told the club's official website. "The goalkeeping position is a difficult one.

"I've been here almost three years without playing in the league. It's normal for people to assess the situation.

"But I forget the past and now I'm playing so it's not a problem.

"If I read the papers and listen to what other people say about me and all these things I will turn crazy. I don't want that.

"When I'm playing well, I honestly don't mind other things. Maybe if I will be playing badly or not too good I would be more worried, but for me life is fantastic and I want to take my chance."