Alexander Hleb has revealed how Jens Lehmann gave his Arsenal team-mates the silent treatment after losing his place in the side.

A combination of injury and poor form in the opening weeks of the season saw Lehmann replaced by Manuel Almunia, with the Spaniard now Arsene Wenger's No.1 choice.

The veteran German took the decision badly, and came close to leaving the club in the January transfer window.

Gunners midfielder Hleb was taken aback by Lehmann's reaction as he became a withdrawn figure.

Angry

Hleb told The Sun: "At first, when Jens was not picked, he was very angry. He did not speak any more.

"He has a good heart - as long as we speak about private things.

"But when he stands on the training ground he becomes a different person. The way he acts there sometimes needs getting used to."

Popular

Belarus international Hleb does not believe Wenger is trying to ease Lehmann out of the club, and insists the players are more than happy to have Almunia behind them.

He added: "I don't think it was part of a big plan from Wenger.

"Jens had a few problems, that's why Almunia got his chance. Almunia is very popular."