Forget Robinson, Carson, James and Green, Almunia could be England's next No 1

Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia could soon be taking on his north London rival Paul Robinson for the England No 1 jersey.

The Spaniard is a year away from becoming a British citizen and, having never represented Spain at any level, the 30-year-old would become eligible to play for England.

'I would never close the door on people who have shown me so much affection,' he told Spanish newspaper El Mundo.

'If I can lend England a hand once the time comes for me to be eligible — and I want to thank the country for the support it has shown me — I don't see why I shouldn't play for them. I don't rule it out.'

Errors by Tottenham keeper Robinson contributed to his national team's failure to qualify for Euro 2008.