Rami Agent Told to Search for Clubs

Rami Agent Told to Search for Clubs

Date: 2-4-2004
Wrote: EP's reporter Karem Ahmed

EXCLUSIVE: Gunners keeper Rami Shaaban has been uncertain of his future at the club recently, after being unable to challenge for a starting place since recovering from injury. He has been busy training hard to prove his worth, and EP managed to catch him for a quick interview regarding his future...

With Jens Lehmann on good form, and Arsenal flying high in all competitions this season, it seems unlikely that Shaaban will get his chance soon. Graham Stack has looked to be Wenger's favoured substitute, although he has rotated Shaaban, Stack and Taylor in reserve games and on the bench. The recent goalkeeping mishaps which have been taking place for Lehmann have also been overlooked by the Arsenal boss, who has full confidence in the German keeper's otherwise superb performances.

With Shaaban's contract expiring at the end of the season, Wenger has tried to test him and see him in action in order to judge the possibility of an extension. Shaaban's loan move to West Ham was a perfect opportunity, but the untimely improvement in substitute Stephen Bywater's form meant Rami was restricted to the bench. A potential loan move to Gillingham recently also fell through as the two clubs could not agree terms. This has left Shaaban with a tough task if he is to persuade Wenger that an extension is necessary.

EP asked Egyptian keeper Rami Shaaban a few questions regarding his future at Highbury, and his aims for the coming period, which will be vital for his progress...

EP: Have you had the meeting with Mr. Wenger yet to discuss your future at Arsenal, and the possibility of a contract extension?

RS: I have spoken to the boss and he wants to take it month by month with me, to see my progress. He said that I'm getting sharper and sharper as every week passes.

EP: How do you see your progress currently, and what are your plans?

RS: It feels very good in training, but I have to be realistic too, so I can't just wait to see what he wants. My contract expires in the summer, so my agent has to start looking around to see what clubs suit me and so on. I have played some reserve games recently and the latest one we won 4-0, and I had a good game... But I'm 28 years old, and I need to play big games, so I have to see what other clubs have to offer. I haven't spoken yet to any clubs however.

EP: And at Arsenal...?

RS: It is very difficult for me to get a chance at the moment because we are undefeated in the league and going very well in the Champions League, and Jens Lehmann hasn't been injured... But I hope I will get my chance, so I have to train hard in case that chance comes.