Jens Lehmann has given Arsène Wenger a selection problem by declaring himself fit for tomorrow’s Champions League group H opening match against Seville. The Germany goalkeeper is still suffering from soreness in his elbow, but insists he can play through the pain to take his place against the Spaniards.
Lehmann is concerned that missing a Champions League match will see him fall farther behind Manuel Almunia, though given the nervous manner in which the Spanish goalkeeper has performed in his absence, he should not be unduly worried.
Almunia was beaten at his near post by a free kick from Gareth Bale against Tottenham Hotspur last Saturday and presented Dimitar Berbatov with an excellent opportunity to give the home side a 2-0 lead by rushing from his line to little effect.
For all his weaknesses, Wenger may still select Almunia, as he is aware that Lehmann’s elbow problem will need nurturing through a long season. The 37-year-old has not played for Arsenal since making errors against Fulham and Blackburn Rovers in the opening two Barclays Premier League matches of the season.
Eduardo will return to the squad after being rested for the North London derby, though William Gallas (groin) and Emmanuel Eboué (ankle) remain doubtful.
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