Source: Team_Talk
Armband will not change Almunia
With Cesc Fabregas sidelined because of a hamstring problem, the 32-year-old Spanish goalkeeper is set to take the armband for Tuesday night's clash against Porto at Emirates Stadium, when Arsenal must overturn a 2-1 deficit.[LNB]Almunia - who missed the first leg through injury - was sidelined by a chest infection earlier in the campaign, which followed a family bereavement.[LNB]The Spaniard, though, has returned to help bolster the Gunners' bid for both Barclays Premier League and Champions League glory.[LNB]"I had a difficult start to the season, but after a few games I came back stronger and now I am in a very good position to help my team and look forward to the rest of the season because we have chances to do things," he said.[LNB]"When my mother-in-law died during pre-season, the manager let me go to Spain and stay with my family, to spend all the time I wanted.[LNB]"She was a very special person for me and my wife. She was great.[LNB]"It is difficult, but when you are mature it is a bit easier to cope with things. It all depends on the sensitivity of the person.[LNB]"Things can affect you as much as your head lets it - when something really bad happens to you, you never know how your mind will react.[LNB]"At that time, I was very low, not very strong to continue, but I took my time and now I am ready again."[LNB]Almunia added: "Every person, every player has had experiences, where the next day you have to wake up and continue working, getting on with your life.[LNB]"This squad is very young, and if anybody needs help, I am here for them.[LNB]"My role will be the same as when I am not captain and just in goal - I have the personality, and will help the team as I do normally every game. The armband does not change anything in myself."[LNB]Gunners boss Wenger admits the loss of Fabregas is a big blow, but maintains his team have enough quality to still progress.[LNB]And Almunia hailed the influence of his young compatriot.[LNB]"Cesc is the spirit of this team - he is our captain, he is a fantastic player and every time he is not on the pitch we miss him a lot," said the Arsenal keeper.[LNB]"But all the players are convinced and 100% committed to get through."[LNB]Denmark forward Nicklas Bendtner missed a string of chances in the 3-1 Premier League win over Burnley on Saturday.[LNB]Almunia revealed the 22-year-old had been on the receiving end of some light-hearted banter from his team-mates.[LNB]"Nick is a special guy. He is young and he is learning," he said.[LNB]"I think he needs people around him who tell him the truth all the time.[LNB]"When he does well, of course everybody will tell him he is good - but when he misses goals he needs someone to push him to improve. That is what we try."[LNB]Almunia added: "I hope he reacts tomorrow and I think he is encouraged by the chances he missed in the game against Burnley. Today he has been training very well."[LNB][LNB]
