Wenger: It’s love, actually

TONY STENSON Arsenal 2 Tottenham 0

ARSENAL manager Arsene Wenger says love is in the air once more at The Emirates.

After downing Tottenham in the North London derby at lunchtime yesterday, the Gunners boss reckons Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil can be convinced to stay – because of their feelings for the club.

Both players want around £300k a week to stay and could leave in the summer for free.

But wages are not the only issue which needs to be resolved if one – or both – are to stay.

Wenger, who brushed off claims that Arsenal got the rub of the green against Spurs with decisions from the officials, said of Sanchez (above) and Ozil: “I have never questioned their commitment.

“You have to give me credit on that. I know them well and I know when these guys go on the pitch they want to win the game and they have shown that commitment again today.

“Am I convinced they will stay? The quality of the contract has to be good and enough for them as well.

“I am convinced they love the club, they love the team but when will the rest be decided? I don’t really know.

“Is money the sticking point? No, but it is part of it, the whole thing has to be right, they have to be happy.

“I believe they love the club and want to stay but other clubs, other top clubs, offer good contracts as well.”

Wenger was delighted with his side’s performance in the derby and added: “The quality of our concentration was very high. We never