• Premier League

Wenger understands supporters' 'fear and discontent'

ESPN staff
October 27, 2011
Arsene Wenger wants everyone at the club to put on a united front © PA Photos
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Arsene Wenger admits Arsenal fans have had every right to criticise him recently - and he can understand their disgruntlement.

The Gunners endured a difficult summer, losing key midfielders Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas, and started the Premier League season in disastrous fashion, with the nadir arriving in an 8-2 loss at Manchester United during August.

They have steadied the ship in recent weeks, but are still only seventh in the table and look a long way short of title-winning quality - an unfamiliar situation that has led to frustration in the stands.

Of particular concern to Arsenal fans was the departure of Nasri, who left the club in order to hunt the riches - and, arguably, the greater chance of silverware - on offer at big-spending Manchester City.

But while Wenger appreciates City's financial clout is a threat to Arsenal, he says it is imperative that everyone involved with the club sticks together and supports the frugal approach.

"I believe the values we defend are highly defendable," Wenger said at the club's Annual General Meeting. "We want to do things with class and be very brave. Courage is a quality I admire, because it is highly needed in the modern world.

"I can see a lot of fear and discontent among you - and I can understand that because we live in a world where we fight with people who have extremely high resources.

"We can compete by trying to be intelligent and to be united, because football is very difficult to be consistent and we have been more consistent than anybody in the world in the last 15 years. To stay at the top, top level we have to stay united.

"That does not mean not I am not to be criticised, or the board - we accept that, but we have to show to the outside we are united. If you are not, then you have no chance."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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