Pepe Reina confident ahead of "special" Arsenal clash

Napoli goalkeeper Pepe Reina has revealed that Arsenal showed an interest in signing him earlier this season, while insisting that he is now only focused on success in Serie A.

Reina joined Napoli after being deemed surplus to requirements by Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers, completing a season-long loan switch in search of first-team football.

The Spaniard will come up against Arsenal at the Emirates tonight, declaring that a return to England for the Champions League clash will be a "special" occasion.

He told The Sun: "The interest of Arsenal in my services? Now I think only of Napoli.

"But to come back to England with Napoli against Arsenal in London is special. Arsenal are top of the Premier League but we are second in Serie A, and it looks like developing into a big season for us.

"There is no clear favourite in this game. We're very confident but it's a tough group and an away point would mean a very positive result for us."

Rafael Benitez's side arrive in North London unbeaten in six Serie A matches, while Arsenal sit top of the Premier League on a fine run of form.