The Incomparable Jens Lehmann, Ladies & Gentlemen.

We’re entering sad times, I fear. As the clock ticks down to the excitement of title conclusions and the commencement of South Africa 2010, football may lose more than it gains: Jens Lehamnn.

May 7th, not two and a half months from now, will see Jens call time on his career. A career full of some good, some bad, and more insanity than could fill a half dozen asylums. He is the neutral’s dream.

And as ever, Jens managed to steal the Champions League spotlight in one of his last remaining continental games.

The first Mad Jens moment came when he took out a photographer over the ad boards despite needing only the brakes of a Powerwheel to stop well short. He still vaulted over the boards for a chat, as Jens is never one not to make everyone else’s business his own. 1:40 in the video:

And the still, complete with photog’s classic “oh, Jens” look:

The second came when a parry turned into Stuttgart’s weekly run of Tonight with Jens Lehmann, saved in the end only by trickling harmlessly into the post. Not his most damning folly, maybe not even a folly at all, but we judge Jens by a different standard, for that is his gift. 6:30:

And finally, the inexplicable attempt on Carles Puyol’s life, which was only saved by the timing for which Jens has been known his entire career:

Were there to be any god at all, Jens Lehmann would play on for another year, perhaps even a few beyond that, simply for the sake of football. Its greatest goalkeeper maybe he’s not, but he is undoubtedly its greatest entertainer. Long live Mad Jens.

[Vids: 101gg]

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Category: Champions League