Axed Lehmann hits back at Wenger

Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has hit back at manager Arsene Wenger after being dropped in favour of young Spaniard Manuel Almunia.

The experienced German international told the Sun newspaper that he was surprised by Wenger's decision to turn to Almunia after the Premier League champions had suffered a few disappointing results in October and November.

"Of course I was surprised to be dropped," said Lehmann. "I'm sorry but what have I done wrong?

"At this club every goal is blamed on the goalkeeper but if they can find someone who never, ever makes the smallest mistake they should sign him right away. But it will be very hard to find that person."

Wenger hinted that Lehmann might decide to leave Arsenal after 18 months with the club, despite helping the Londoners win the title in his first season at Highbury.

"It is the second time he has mentioned that and I think everybody in football knows why he does it," Lehmann said.

"But I have signed for three years and I intend to honour that contract. I know what is going on and I am very confident I will be playing again soon."

The 35-year-old Lehmann returned to the Arsenal side for Sunday's FA Cup third-round win over Stoke City but is likely to return to the substitutes' bench for Saturday's Premier League trip to Bolton Wanderers.