Song calls for encore by Wenger

THE Tottenham fans bellowed out what has now become a familiar song up and down the country. “Arsene Wenger – we want you to stay”. That is some taunt bearing in mind this will be the first season in Wenger’s 21-year reign that Spurs have finished above Arsenal, a run which stretches back to 1995. But they can see what is happening at Arsenal, just as fans of every other club can as well. A once-great manager, the most successful boss in Arsenal’s history, is in decline. If ever you needed proof then that showed in Arsenal’s lame performance in the North London derby, a fixture which normally conjures up pride, passion and determination. There was very little of that on offer from Arsenal. There were a few notable exceptions as Petr Cech made a string of brilliant saves. Kieran Gibbs did well and Alex Oxlade-chamberlain was wholehearted again. But where were the big players? Mesut Ozil went missing yet again. No heart, no fire and nothing in his performance to suggest he is worldclass. Alexis Sanchez had some moments, but again much of what he does is for the cameras and he is not really a team player. Arsenal’s defence looked vulnerable, the midfield completely outclassed and Olivier Giroud (below) sluggish, heavy and completely out of his depth. This squad needs such an overhaul, such a lift and, in truth, a new manager to freshen things up and stop it going stale. Wenger (above with Mauricio Pochettino) has always guaranteed a top-four place and kept the fans happy by finishing above the old enemy. One of those aims has gone already and Arsenal still need a minor miracle to make the top four, even though yesterday’s results went in their favour. A big change is needed this summer – starting at the very top. It looks as if Wenger will stay on for another two years and the danger for Arsenal is that will ruin all the good memories.