Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno has stated that his absence from the starting XI is not performance related, amidst growing speculation of his future.
The German, who arrived in North London in 2018, started the first three games of the new Premier League season but has since seen new signing Aaron Ramsdale take the gloves for victories over Norwich City, Burnley and Tottenham Hotspur.
In Leno's three appearances, the Gunners failed to collect a point, while conceding nine goals, and he was subsequently reduced to the bench following the international break but has insisted that was not down to performances.
As quoted by The Mirror, the 29-year-old said: "There was no clear reason why I was out, but it had nothing to do with my performance. He [Arteta] is the trainer, he decides. Of course, it's difficult for me."
Rumours have now arisen over the German leaving the Emirates Stadium, with Serie A champions Inter Milan said to be keeping an eye on the former Bayer Leverkusen man as a long-term replacement for 37-year-old Samir Handanovic.
Sam Varley
