Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes goalkeeper Manuel Almunia is close to winning his first ever Spanish call-up.
Gunners boss tipping keeper to land place in Spanish squad
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes goalkeeper Manuel Almunia is close to winning his first ever Spanish call-up.
The 30-year-old keeper is currently The Gunners' first-choice shot-stopper after fending off Jens Lehmann following his return to fitness following injury.
Wenger sees no reason why Almunia's age should count against him and feels his attitude has played a major part in his development over the years.
When was asked whether Almunia was not far from being called-up by Luis Aragones, Wenger told the club's official website: "He is not.
Noises
"I know that. There [are] always noises coming out of the camp so I know that this is thought about.
"It is a little bit like the Gregory Coupet story in France where he came late to Lyon and then the national team.
"But overall goalkeepers careers can start late. Sometimes it is down to getting the right chance and the right moment.
"I feel as well he was here in an environment with top-class keepers around him in the team like Lehmann who test you and push you.
"The conjunction of all these qualities has made him a better goalkeeper. But first of all, he has a fantastic attitude and wants always to improve."
