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LONDON — Arsene Wenger believes he retains the support of the majority of Arsenal supporters following a day of protest at the Emirates Stadium. A pre-arranged demonstration saw a number of fans hold up signs saying “time for change” during the 12th minute of Arsenal’s narrow 1-0 home victory over relegation-threatened Norwich City on Saturday.
The timing of the protest was reference to the fact that it is 12 years since Arsenal last won the English Premier League title — too long a gap in the eyes of many of the north London club’s supporters, for all the Gunners have consistently finished in the top four in the intervening period.
But the cries criticising the Arsenal manager were drowned out by expressions of support, with other fans chanting “there’s only one Arsene Wenger”.
“It was a strange atmosphere but we’ve to live with that and overall the fans, some were protesting yes, but the big majority didn’t and the big majority was behind the team and they showed they appreciate what I’ve done until now,” said Wenger, Arsenal’s manager since September 1996.
“I heard them (the chants of support) but I was focused on the game, my job is to win football games so once the game starts I focus on that. You can do both. I acknowledged the crowd.”
The 66-year-old Frenchman continued: “I’m a professional that has given 20 years to this club and have given my best for this club and have to accept the judgment of people.
“The only thing I don’t doubt is my sincere commitment to this club. I’m sorry that I can’t keep 100 percent happy but maybe that’s because we’ve been remarkably consistent.” — AFP
Online Reporter