Ex-Arsenal forward: Gunners should sack “embarrassing” Wenger

Ex-Arsenal forward Paul Merson has reignited his ongoing feud with Arsene Wenger by challenging the Gunners’ board to sack the under-fire Frenchman.

Merson incurred the wrath of his former manager by labelling Arsenal as “tactically clueless” after losing a three-goal lead against Anderlecht last Tuesday.

Wenger hit back by branding the comments a “joke” and questioned Merson – who briefly managed Walsall – over his qualifications to make such an observation.

But the 46-year-old has fuelled this war of words once more by claiming that Arsenal – who lost to Swansea City on Sunday – will continue to decline under Wenger this season.

“Arsenal’s season is going from bad to worse but is it the end of the road for Arsene Wenger? I doubt it. Not while the board are showing so little ambition. Why sack someone who makes you money every year and hardly ever spends it?” Merson told the Star.

“I think they are taking liberties with the fans. Arsenal only realistically have the FA Cup to play for this season.

“That’s not good enough when you’re paying thousands for a season ticket. They’re not winning the league. Even Wenger says they can’t catch Chelsea any more. And let’s be honest, they’re not winning the Champions League either are they?

“Arsenal’s season is usually over by February when they have a mad week and go out of everything. But it’s in danger of being over a lot quicker than that this year.”

With 12 points separating us and Premier League leaders Chelsea, Wenger ruled out Arsenal’s title bid after that defeat in Wales, a decision which Merson claims was “embarrassing”.

He added: “To say you’re out of the title race in November like Wenger just has is embarrassing.

“It’s hard to watch Arsenal right now. I played there for years. I won things with the club. I still look for their results. But it hurts to see them like this.”

The Gooner awaits Wenger’s rebuttal with bated breath.