Almunia 'would consider England'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Should Ben Foster become England's No 1 in the future, there is every chance that he will have to keep Manuel Almunia out of the side, as the Arsenal goalkeeper is considering an application for a British passport that would allow him to play for Fabio Capello's side.
The Spaniard joined the Gunners from Celta Vigo in 2004, and under residency laws would soon be eligible to apply to become a naturalised British citizen. And despite being a regular in the Champions League, Almunia has not been called up to the Spain team.
While any application is not about to be processed imminently, there remains a chance Almunia would be available to Capello for selection – or indeed, to any of the other home nations – in time for the build-up to the 2010 World Cup.
"People are asking this question now because I have been in England for five years and am able to apply for a passport," Almunia said. "I am taking in the information, what I need to do for a passport. I think, for January next year, maybe I can have the permission. Maybe I will get a passport, then after, if I get the call-up [from England], I will think about this."
Almunia is one of only a handful of first-team Arsenal regulars not away on international duty this week.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments