Manuel Almunia: Turkish fans don't scare us

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

The Spaniard will lead out the Gunners in Europe for the first time due to the absence of captain William Gallas and deputy Kolo Toure at the intimidating Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.

Fenerbahce have not lost in 15 European home matches in a run that stretches back to November 2004 and Almunia knows to expect a hostile reception.

He said: "Their team and their fans will try and put some pressure on us in the first 15 minutes."

"They will have the whole crowd behind them. But I think we are experienced enough to handle ourselves, play our football and we will be alright. But it will be crucial for us to get through the first 15 minutes."

Almunia, who was given the captaincy by boss Arsene Wenger for the second half of Saturday's 3-1 Premier League win over Everton, says he intends to lead by example.

He added: "I am very proud to wear the armband. I hope I can support my team from behind and command my defenders very well to get the points."