Wenger to start Lehmann in Cup

ARSENAL boss Arsene Wenger anticipates Jens Lehmann being involved in the FA Cup tie against Burnley on Sunday.

Lehmann, 38, has been linked with a move back to Germany and speculation intensified after Borussia Dortmund called a press conference for today.

Wenger has the Carling Cup semi-final against Tottenham next Wednesday to prepare for and is carefully considering his team for Turf Moor this weekend.

“I think Jens Lehmann will be involved,” the Frenchman said.

Lehmann was dropped towards the start of the season following a blunder against Blackburn and Manuel Almunia has established himself as Wenger’s first choice since, after a run of form that has seen him suggested as a possible England goalkeeper when he qualifies for residency.

Wenger also has Poland youngster Lukasz Fabianski, who has only been used in the Carling Cup since arriving from Legia Warsaw in the summer.

Wenger has previously suggested William Gallas and Gael Clichy would be rested for the Burnley clash, while Kolo Toure, Emmanuel Eboue and Bacary Sagna will play.

He told Arsenal TV Online: “Kolo Toure, Eboue and Sagna will all play. A few of the players who featured over Christmas will be rested and a few will come in. It will be a mixture.”

Striker Emmanuel Adebayor has a slight hamstring injury but can play if required.

Robin van Persie has been missing recently with a muscular problem but has been earmarked for a possible return against Birmingham next week.

“We do have a little problem with Adebayor on his hamstring but, if really needed, he could play,” Wenger added.

“Robin van Persie will not be involved. But it is very short for him now. The next deadline could be Birmingham.”