KROENKE BACKING... FOR NOW

of fourth-placed Tottenham. Arsenal’s most likely way back is by winning the Europa League, however they face a daunting two-legged clash against AC Milan in the next round. Qualifying for the Champions League next season would provide Wenger with a significant bargaining tool in his attempts to stay. At the moment, however, Wenger is facing the virtually impossible task of arguing the team has improved after he was awarded a two-year extension last summer, particularly after they broke their transfer record twice in the space of seven months. The club’s hierarchy has changed significantly this season; chief executive Ivan Gazidis appointing head of recruitment Sven Mislintat, head of football relations Raul Sanllehi and contract negotiatior Huss Fahmy. The appointments have lessened Wenger’s overall control at the club, particularly with regards to the club’s recruitment policy. Arsenal’s new-look top brass will have an influential role during the summer review and the appointment of Wenger’s eventual successor. However, majority shareholder Stan Kroenke will have the final say on whether Wenger leaves. The Arsenal manager has enjoyed the staunch backing of the US tycoon since Kroenke’s involvement in the club began in 2007. Kroenke (above) played a pivotal role in Wenger signing a two-year extension last summer. But questions are being raised over whether his support of Wenger remains as strong given the club’s difficult season. Another year out of the Champions League would have a detrimental impact on the club’s financial position; something that may force Kroenke into a change of heart. Indeed, the fact Kroenke’s son Josh — who sits on the Gunners board and was at Wembley on Sunday — has moved to London to gain a greater understanding of the club’s inner workings is viewed as a significant move. The Kroenke family have a reputation of being distant owners, but Josh Kroenke’s decision to take a more handson roll indicates the club are considering a change. Training ground morale is likely to be one of the areas Josh Kroenke will analyse during his stay in the English capital. And Sportsmail understands there is a growing a feeling among a core group of Arsenal’s squad that Wenger is no longer the man to take the team forward. There is no lack of respect for Wenger from players and staff at the club’s London Colney HQ, but their is a growing fear that the club will continue to lag behind while the Frenchman is at the held. To that effect, certain players are actively seeking routes out of the club, with the likes of Aaron Ramsey and Hector Bellerin linked with potential moves away.