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EURO 2008 presents a very particular challenge for Jens Lehmann. As he says himself, “After last season, I want to show what I can do.”

The 38-year-old keeper added, “It's an incredible motivating force for me. In that sense, it's quite a different situation from two years ago.” On that occasion, Lehmann replaced Oliver Kahn as Germany's number one between the posts for the 2006 World Cup.


No contract extension

“I was pretty certain at the time that I would win that contest. I'd had one of my best seasons at Arsenal and knew if things continued in that vein that it would work out well.” Things worked out less well in the season past, however. Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger promoted Manuel Almunia to first-choice keeper, to Lehmann's clearly-voiced frustration. The Gunners then chose not to offer the former Schalke and Dortmund goalie a contract extension.

The decision appears to have had little impact on Lehmann's confidence. “Of course I'll be playing at EURO 2008. That's why I'm here”, he commented at the German national squad's training camp in Mallorca. Coach Joachim Löw has all but confirmed that claim, saying, “All things being equal, Jens has his nose in front. With the exception of the game against Austria, he's put in good performances for the national side. And on top of that he holds the record of 621 minutes without conceding a goal.”

Rivals agree

The other two goalkeepers in the German squad, Rene Adler and Robert Enke, appear to agree that experiece will win the day at the finals. “Jens will be playing. It'll be interesting to see who's named as his stand-in”, said Hannover 96 keeper Enke. “Hopefully, it will be me.”

Leverkusen young gun Adler, whose selection ahead of Timo Hildebrand was something of a surprise, says he is content in the role of number three: “I'm here to learn and pick up tips from Jens and Robert. In the longer term, of course, my aim has to be a regular first-team slot.” At 23, Adler certainly has time on his side.

Options open

For his part, Lehmann has not categorically ruled out taking part in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa: “Let's wait and see. I'm still in good shape and would like to continue playing. But what happens after the EUROs is still up in the air.” If he is to continue playing for the national side, however, he first has to get fixed up with a new employer as soon as possible.

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