Almunia I'll keep Lehmann out

Manuel Almunia has vowed to keep his Arsenal teammate Jens Lehmann out of the side. The Spaniard has taken the number 1 jersey from the German keeper, and Jens has been very outspoken regarding the issue.

The Germany goalkeeper has been critical of Almunia claiming that he has yet to win 'important' games for Arsenal.

However, Almunia insists he has the required experience.

"I am enjoying my best form since I arrived at Arsenal," Almunia said in the Daily Mirror.

"It's not easy to be in the title race but it is in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League that I have had my best moments.

"I always had confidence in my coach that he would give me my chance and now I am proving that I deserve to be in the position.

"The coach decides who is the keeper. I always accept the choice and never made comments when I was on the bench.

"Now I am the No.1 and I want that situation to stay the same for the rest of the season."

Almunia also believes that if his side can defeat United they will confirm their title credentials after an impressive unbeaten start to the season.

"If we beat them it would give us enormous belief," Almunia added.

"Victory would show that we are serious contenders to win the title."