Bernd Leno insisted that there was no feud after his departure from Arsenal as he supported the Gunners in the fight for the Premier League title.
Germany goalkeeper Leno left the Emirates Stadium on unwelcome terms after suggesting “politics” influenced his departure and subsequent move to Fulham ahead of this season.
The comments took Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta by surprise as Leno appeared to be pointing the finger at his former employers after the end of his four-year stint in north London.
Aaron Ramsdale proved to be the preferred option and helped Arsenal take a five-point lead at the Premier League summit, while Leno put past grievances behind him to maintain the Gunners’ title.
“I don’t have toxic (feelings) or bad energy for Arsenal,” the 31-year-old told Standard Sport. “It didn’t end perfectly, but I was received very well at Emirates.
“Fans come up to me and say: “Thank you for your four years… you were very good.”
“I was very pleased with my performances. Even when they dumped me, I didn’t do anything wrong. I went in through the front door and out through the front door. I still have a connection with the club.”
Responding to an offer from Arsenal to postpone the title challenge against Manchester City, Leno added: “I hope they do, I think they can.”
Fulham are seventh in the Premier League after losing 3-2 to Brentford on Monday as Marco Silva challenges an unlikely European qualification.
While Leno missed out on Germany’s World Cup qualification in Qatar, he is looking to make his international comeback by continuing to impress at Craven Cottage.
“I didn’t go to the World Cup because I didn’t play at Arsenal and the World Cup was in November,” he added.
“I can accept it. But, I hope, in March, in the summer, and maybe next season I will be able to return. This is the goal for me.”
