Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger
has backed Manuel Almunia as the best possible solution to
England's goalkeeping problems.
Having never represented the Spanish national team, Almunia has
long been mooted as a possible candidate to be England's number
one, should he take up British citizenship through his English
wife.
These claims have been variously rejected by those involved with
the England national team set-up, but following Almunia's
outstanding display against Manchester United in midweek, the
inevitable question has been raised once again.
However, this time Almunia's case has been given the unreserved
backing of his club coach Wenger, who sees the former Osasuna
stopper as more than worthy of a place in the England team.
"I believe he is not only good enough, but he is the best,"
stated Wenger.
"There are international rules which have to be respected, but
if it is possible legally, why not?
"Then it is more a choice left to the English Football
Association or to Manuel Almunia's desire."
Wenger may well be in favour, but he admits that he is unsure
whether either party would actually be willing to agree to
Almunia's inclusion.
"It is down to what you expect morally and mentally from a
national team," he added.
"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?"