Wenger supports Alumina for England

May 4, 2009

Manuel Almunia becomes eligible in the summer for British Citizenship and his Arsenal manager has supported his consideration to play for England if he is allowed to.

“If it is possible legally, why not? I believe he is not only good enough, but he is the best,” said Wenger.

“There are international rules which have to be respected and then it is more a choice left to the English Football Association or to Manuel Almunia’s desire.”

Almunia, who joined Arsenal from Spanish side Celta Vigo, has previously expressed interest in representing England, saying: “They [Spain] have never, never called me.

“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.”

Fabio Capello has yet to decide on a permanent number 1 with there being a few names put into the ring. David James is the current first choice but hasn’t had the best season this year and at the age of 38 could be on his way out. Paul Robinson, Chris Kirkland, Robert Green and Ben Foster are also in contention. Foster has the potential to be first choice England number 1 for many years but he must start playing regularly with Manchester United.

But Wenger believes turning to a naturalised replacement such as Almunia is a viable option.

“It is down to what you expect morally and mentally from a national team,” said the Frenchman. “I believe at some stage you have to observe just the rules and decide what you want.

“On the English side, for the national team, it is not so much a problem because if the guy decides to become English, he has had to observe and respect the rules like anybody else.

“Why should he then not be qualified to play for the national team?

“It is more a moral problem maybe for Manuel Almunia, because does he consider he has a chance to play in the Spanish national team or not?”

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