‘It’s not negative’ – Arsenal legend Martin Keown responds to Jens Lehmann’s purchase of ‘Invincibles’ brand

Martin Keown had defended his former Arsenal teammate Jens Lehmann’s recent purchase of the trademark rights to the name ‘Invincibles’.

Lehmann, who was part of the Invincibles team that went undefeated throughout the 2003/04 Premier League season winning the title, spent £30,000 on the brand ahead of the 20th anniversary of the feat.

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The former Arsenal goalkeeper will set up a business with the support of his former teammates and legendary Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.

“I came up with this idea because the name ‘Invincibles’ is becoming more and more popular as the 20th anniversary approaches,” Lehmann told the Daily Mail.

“No one had it, so I was looking for it.” I was willing to get the trademark rights for our band, so anyone who uses it is violating our trademark. The club was probably a bit surprised because no one had thought to register the brand. At least they know it’s now under control.”

Reports claimed that Arsenal were unaware of Lehmann’s decision and that the rights to the Invincibles name had been taken away “under the club’s noses”.

Furthermore, responding to questions about whether Lehmann’s adventure contained underhanded tactics, Keown was keen to set the record straight.

“It’s been a very open process – what Jens has done is patent the word ‘Invincibles’ and share it with all the players and all the staff,” Keown told the White and Jordan show on talkSPORT.

“He created a business that would benefit everyone if anything could benefit from it. It’s not for him, it’s for the whole group… with our agreement.

“Everyone was part of the 40-strong WhatsApp group – players and staff… a lot of people played their part in this incredible success.

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“I wouldn’t put a negative comment on it,” he continued. “I think it’s about unity. The club is completely in tandem with that and we will look to do charitable things with the club.

“For me it’s positive, I don’t see it as a negative story. Jens did it for the group, he did it for the masseur, the kitman, the people who didn’t really gain any money.

“Arsène knows it and is aware of it, he is part of this group, like all the members of the staff. Jens does not take this personally, he just makes sure that it is protected in the future.

Keown explained that one of the reasons for the new ‘Invincibles’ brand is to host matches of Arsenal legends to raise money for charity, inspired by Premier League rivals Liverpool .

The Merseysiders host a number of legends matches at Anfield each year, with club icons Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres, Ian Rush, Steve McManaman and many more returning to the field in front of a family crowd – with all proceeds being donated to works worthy of the name. causes.

The Gunners greats are looking to do the same, starting next season.

“What they are looking to do is a documentary, they are negotiating with the broadcasters and we hope to organize a match next season.

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“There was an opportunity to do a match, the club offered a date but it came up against UNICEF Soccer Aid on June 9, which is a major event that they didn’t want to go up against – but there will be a match and a charity connection.

“I like what Liverpool have done, I like their community legends matches, that match with Sven (Goran Eriksson) – they are the pioneers in that, and I would like Arsenal to follow that to some extent at the future.”

Keown also revealed that he and his former team-mates will march onto the pitch in the final home game of the season against Everton later this month, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Invincibles’ campaign.

“There is no division between us former players and the club, it’s quite the opposite,” Keown added.

“Actually, we were all invited to the last game of the season.

“The Invincibles will be on the pitch and I hope to be there with further Premier League success for the current team. That’s all we want, the older generation.”