Better to come from Gunners - Almunia

Manuel Almunia has warned the rest of the Premier League title contenders that Arsenal are far from hitting top form yet.

Recent seasons have seen Christmas table-toppers eventually lift the trophy and Arsene Wenger’s side were at the summit following victory over rivals Tottenham at the weekend.

It needed a penalty save from Almunia and a late header from Nicklas Bendtner to secure victory following a tense clash at the Emirates Stadium.

However, Almunia is encouraged by picking up wins when not playing at full tilt.

“We are not playing too well now, but we have taken three points against Spurs at the weekend,” he said.

“I think we have to improve away from home because now we have two consecutive games which are very, very difficult, Portsmouth and Everton.

“And, after those two games, we will show how strong Arsenal are and what Arsenal can win this year.

“The season is long, but at the moment, we have played 18 games and we are at the top and that means something.

“I think Arsenal are doing many things well and every time we win we have to believe in ourselves.”

Almunia’s form has prompted suggestions he could be a future England goalkeeper.

The 30-year-old was born in Pamplona but is yet to receive a call from Spain boss Luis Aragones, and in a year he will qualify for England.

Paul Robinson and Scott Carson have been guilty of high-profile errors and David James’ age could count against him if new England boss Fabio Capello looks long term.

“I will study my situation,” said Almunia.

“And, if Spain don’t call me...

“They have never, never called me. And, if other people want me, I have to study my situation and take a decision because it is good for me, I will not close myself to anything.”

Meanwhile, Wenger has backed Sol Campbell in the campaign to tackle crowd abuse - and has called for the perpetrators to be named and shamed.

Portsmouth centre-back Campbell, who faces his former club Arsenal today, believes the vitriol from supporters is now a human rights issue.

Wenger also has a history of getting taunted by fans and insists there is a line that should not be crossed.

Wenger said: “Sol has a big point. Why should you not be respected just because you are on the pitch? I agree completely with him.

“Why do people get away with it? Because they are masked by being around lots of other people.

“If they did it individually, you could see who to target. I feel the best is to film them when they shout abuse and then send the tape to their family so they can see what is going on. That is the best way to combat it.”