Arsenal FC

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Almunia eyes England spot

26 Dec 2007 - 13:18:06

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Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia has reiterated his desire to play for England in the future.

The 30-year-old Spanish-born shot-stopper has played a key part in the Gunners' excellent first half to the season after displacing Jens Lehmann as Arsene Wenger's first-choice keeper, and saved a penalty in Saturday's derby success against Tottenham.

Almunia, who has not been called up by Spain and will qualify to play for England in a year's time, said: "I will study my situation, and, if Spain don't call me...

"They have never, never called me. And, if other people want me, I have to study my situation and take a decision because it is good for me, I will not close myself to anything."

Of Arsenal's current form, the former Albacete star added: "We are not playing too well now, but we have taken three points against Spurs at the weekend.

"I think we have to improve away from home because now we have two consecutive games which are very, very difficult, Portsmouth and Everton.

"And, after those two games, we will show how strong Arsenal are and what Arsenal can win this year.

"The season is long, but at the moment, we have played 18 games and we are at the top and that means something.

"I think Arsenal are doing many things well and every time we win we have to believe in ourselves."