Wenger stands by Almunia

Keeper given backing after United display

Last updated: 4th November 2007   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Wenger stands by Almunia

Almunia: Mistakes

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Arsene Wenger is sticking by Manuel Almunia for the time being following the Arsenal keeper's less than convincing display against Manchester United.

Almunia has earned a regular run in the Gunners side this season after replacing former first choice Jens Lehmann in August.

Lehmann has already voiced his criticism of Wenger's decision to keep Almunia in goal and the Spaniard produced a shaky showing in Saturday's 2-2 draw with United.

On several occasions, Almunia rushed out of his goal, with one such aberration allowing Cristiano Ronaldo to score the champions' second.

Done well

But while Wenger will not tolerate mistakes on a regular basis, he is prepared to keep Almunia in his side.

"Lehmann was injured and Almunia has done extremely well since, 10 games on the trot," said Wenger. "I didn't want to disturb the side.

"Until now, he has done very well. I believe in sticking with one goalkeeper.

"You cannot tell him, 'No matter how many mistakes you make, you'll always be my goalkeeper'. But you have to give him at least two games."

Unhappy

Reflecting on the player's performance against United, the Arsenal boss feels his keeper will be self-critical.

Wenger added: "He rushed out to block the cross and he was unhappy with his decision making. Would he have caught the ball? Could he have stayed inside?

"He left his goal and didn't get the ball, so he'll feel as if he made a mistake. I'll have to watch it again."