Diaby: Almunia did call out to me

Written by Jonathan Chong on Wednesday, September 2, 2009

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Date	Time	C	Opponent	F	A	R	S
29 Aug	5:15 PM	P	Manchester United (A)	1	2	Lost

Midfielder Abou Diaby has said that he regrets the mistake he made over the weekend, when he gifted the winning goal to Manchester United.

Diaby headed past his own keeper as he attempted to clear a United free kick. Some of us are wondering why didn't goalkeeper Manuel Almunia come to catch the ball, like what Jens Lehmann used to do.

Speaking to The Sun, Diaby has revealed that Almunia did call out to the defence to leave the ball, presumably because it would go wide, but the Frenchman instinctively decided to jump and head the ball.

He said: "The goalkeeper called out to me to leave the ball, but it's all my fault. Even when I look back at the images I ask myself what happened, and I tell myself that it's just not possible."

However, the Frenchman had the opportunity to redeem himself when right after the kick-off, he charged through the midfield into the United penalty area, before scuffing his shot.

Diaby added: "I was so wound up and soon after I rushed my shot because I didn't apply myself properly."

Well, I suppose it's time for us to move on. The result cannot be changed but one thing is encouraging is that Diaby has looked a different player in the new system that manager Arsène Wenger has introduced.

The team has looked more dangerous going forward in its 4-3-3 formation, and Diaby says that he's happier in his new role.

He summarised: "It could be the right year for Arsenal. I hope to play in a more central position. I prefer our 4-3-3 system as I don't play in a wide role."

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