Martin Keown has paid tribute to Alex Manninger, describing him as "one of Arsenal's greatest unsung heroes" after his passing. The former goalkeeper stepped in for injured David Seaman in January 1998 and kept clean sheets in his first six Premier League games, winning five of them. Arsenal fans quickly embraced the Austrian shot-stopper, creating a song for him that became popular in the dressing room.

Manninger's most significant contribution came during Arsenal's title challenge, including a crucial 1-0 victory at Manchester United - their first Premier League win at Old Trafford. He helped secure the Premier League title despite only making seven appearances, requiring special dispensation to receive a winners medal. The Austrian also played a key role in Arsenal's FA Cup triumph, saving a penalty in a dramatic quarter-final victory against West Ham that went to extra time.

Keown recalls Manninger's competitive spirit on the pitch balanced by his calm personality off it. The defender highlighted how the young goalkeeper handled the pressure of replacing a world-class keeper, noting "there was something almost charmed about him, because he never seemed to make a mistake." Despite leaving Arsenal in 2002, Manninger's impact on the 1997-98 double-winning season ensured his place in the club's history.