Wenger confirms Lehmann exit

Frenchman applauds out-of-contract goalkeeper's attitude

By James Dall   Last updated: 4th May 2008

Jens Lehmann Arsenal

Lehmann: Fond farewell

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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Jens Lehmann will part company with the club in the summer.

The out-of-contract Germany international came on as a 69th minute substitute to replace Lukasz Fabianski in Arsenal's 1-0 victory over Everton on Sunday to mark his final game with the club.

Lehmann has struggled to regain the No.1 jersey after a dip in form early on in the season saw Manuel Almunia become The Gunners' first-choice shot-stopper.

Wenger was full of praise for Lehmann, who joined Arsenal in 2003 from Borussia Dortmund, hailing his professionalism.

"Yes [that is the end of his Arsenal career]. That is why I brought him on. We have great respect for him," he told Sky Sports.

"He is a super professional and super talented. In the seven years I worked with Jens I could not fault him.

"He was focused every single day and worked very hard."

Jens grateful

Lehmann voiced his appreciation to the Arsenal supporters after the Emirates Stadium crowd saw him off with a standing ovation at the end of the game.

"The moment at the end was an amazing feeling for me - after five years and a lot of emotional moments," he said.

"It was a great farewell for me and I am really grateful to the supporters and they will always stay in my heart.

"I really appreciated [coming on at the end]. In terms of success [during my Arsenal career], [the unbeaten season] was my highlight.

"It was unfortunate that this season did not come to a deserved happy ending."

On his plans for the future, Lehmann added: "I don't know yet. I will play in the European Championships. I would love to play on, but that is my feeling now. Ask me in June after Euro 2008 - I might have changed my mind. I will see."