• Premier League

Wenger reveals concerns over Almunia

ESPN staff
July 8, 2010
Manuel Almunia struggled for form last season © Getty Images
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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has cast doubt over Manuel Almunia's future at the club by questioning the goalkeeper's ability to handle pressure in crucial matches.

Almunia was dropped by Wenger last season after a series of costly mistakes from the Spaniard proved damaging to the Gunners' chances of Premier League glory.

One of those handed the chance to replace Almunia was Lukasz Fabianski, but he failed to seize the opportunity to grasp the No. 1 shirt when it was offered to him.

Now Wenger, who has been linked with a move for Fulham's Mark Schwarzer, has announced that he is set to address the club's goalkeeping situation.

"Manuel Almunia is a talented goalkeeper," Wenger told Kenyan newspaper the Standard. "In training, he is superb, the only problem is that he gets nervous on big matches, thereby making silly mistakes.

"After the World Cup, we will be making an announcement on goalkeeping."

Wenger also revealed that he does not expect captain Cesc Fabregas, who has been the subject of interest from Barcelona, to leave the club in the near future. "I do not see him leaving soon," Wenger said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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