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Wenger blasts 'completely unfair' press

Arsene Wenger saw his side lose 2-0 at Stamford Bridge on Sunday © Getty Images

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Wenger leading Arsenal into mediocrity

Arsene Wenger has blamed the press for misrepresenting his post-match comments after Michael Ballack accused the Arsenal manager of being a bad loser following his side's 2-0 defeat to Chelsea.

Wenger's assertion that "we didn't get a demonstration of football" from Chelsea and that the home side "have a lot of tricks" by utilising fouls to break up counter-attacks drew a rebuke from Ballack on Monday night.

The Germany captain criticised Wenger when claiming the Arsenal manager "always says things like this when he loses to find an excuse" and, in response to comments regarding Chelsea's style, that "football is not possession of the ball and playing a nice pass - football is about winning games".

But rather than respond to Ballack, Wenger instead sought to take the media to task for what he perceived as unfair handling of a press conference in which he also praised Chelsea for their efficiency and resolute defensive performance.

"I was full of compliment and praise for Chelsea after the game," Wenger said. "I find it completely unfair from the press that you take one word from my press conference to turn it."

Wenger's description of Aston Villa as a long-ball team following a Premier League draw in January also drew a furious reaction from opposite number Martin O'Neill, who described the jibe as an "appalling insult".

"You did that at Villa, you did that at Chelsea. If you look at the intent of my press conference it was positive to the opponent."

Meanwhile, Arsenal defender Kyle Bartley has joined Sheffield United on loan for three months. The 19-year-old made his first-team debut in December's Champions League trip to Olympiacos.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.