Jens Lehmann attempted to make a transfer deadline day return to Germany, it has been revealed.

The Mail on Sunday says Lehmann tried to make a deadline-day return to Germany after losing his status as Arsenal's No 1 goalkeeper to Manuel Almunia.

One of Lehman's old clubs, Schalke, were keen on bringing him home but time ran out for the deal to be agreed and for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger to sign a replacement.

Although his absence from the team to face Portsmouth today is officially explained by injury, Lehman, 37, is resigned to having lost his starting role following embarrassing mistakes in Arsenal's first two Premier League games.