Lehmanns Terms

It's been almost three years since he left Arsenal, but he's back.

Jens Lehmann had big boots (and gloves) to fill when he joined as legendary keeper David Seaman's replacement.

Fans were patient, and they were excited, as Jens impressed for the most part. Despite being quite an eccentric goalkeeper, he showed incredible skill throughout his time at Arsenal - playing a key role in the 2003/04 Premier League season.

Jens Lehmann - Man of the Match in the
2005 FA Cup Final.

His departure not only meant the loss of a very unique personality for Arsenal. It also meant the waiting game was to begin again.

And since May of 2008, fans of Arsenal have still been waiting. The likes of Manuel Almunia, Fabianski and Szczesny have all been given chances in goals for the Gunners, however none have been able to hold down a first team place.



So what to do? Enter Jens Lehmann v2.

The now 41 year old veteran has come out of retirement to push Arsenal forward in the race for the EPL title (or at least, try to.)

While he most probably has not got the quality he once had as a goalkeeper, his personality and determination seem to already be shining through, if Wengers comments and the medias comments are enough to go on.

Arsenal fans may feel some form of comfort in hearing that Lehmann is determined to raise the spirit of the team, however many fans will be unsure of Lehmanns influence on the squad, with the veteran already breathing down the neck of his former nemesis Manuel Almunia for a first-team spot; an all too familiar scene.

Personally I'm not really sure what to think of Lehmann's return. Surely his determination will be a huge positive for the players, but with Fabianski and Szczesny out, he's a good emergency option.


So, I'm hoping Lehmann still has some of those skills we saw in the early 2000's. A positive we can take from his age however, is that unlike in the early 2000's, Mr. Lehmann may be less inclined to run out of his box to attempt a dramatic save in 2011.