Manuel Almunia will start for Arsenal against Blackburn Rovers – Arsene Wenger

Jens Lehmann and Manuel Almunia

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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed Manuel Almunia will start in goal for the Gunners on Saturday against Blackburn Rovers.

Much speculation surrounded the Spanish goalkeeper after his mix-up with Sebastien Squillaci in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with West Brom in their last outing, with some suggesting a return of Jens Lehmann to the Arsenal line up.

Wenger, however, has moved to clarify the issue, insisting Almunia will still start at the Emirates.

“Almunia will play tomorrow,” said Wenger at his pre-match press conference.

“I can announce that today, he will be in goal. He looks in good shape in training and Jens gives him good competition. The best thing for Almunia to do is put in a good performance in the next game.

“Jens comes back to being very sharp, he is looking better every day. You do not stop at his age for seven months and you are straight away back to your best but he’s getting better – they both look good in training.”

The Gunners are five points behind Manchester United at the top of the Premier League, but do have a game in hand as the critical end-of-season period approaches.