I WON’T ASK ARSENE
Emery wants to hear it from his stars
UNAI EMERY has admitted he will not be picking Arsene Wenger’s brains about Arsenal.
Despite the Frenchman managing the club for over two decades, Emery revealed he would rather get his info from the players he inherited.
The Gunners’ new boss – who also confirmed he forced Jack Wilshere’s exit by refusing to guarantee him a regular starting slot – made it clear yesterday he had better things to do than consult Wenger. “Each coach needs to know the players,” said the former Seville and Paris St-Germain manager. “Not all the coaches have the same relationship with a player and I have my personality.
“I want to know with my direct opinion, with my direct conversations with the player.
“I have information on the players from the club, from the people around me. The information with Arsene is also important for me, but the best is my direct relationship and conversations with players.” Spaniard Emery also had no sentiment when it came to England star Wilshere, a fans’ favourite after 17 years with the north Londoners.
The 26-year-old’s contract was allowed to run down by Arsenal, but before signing for West Ham he spoke about his prospects with Emery. “The conversation with Wilshere was very good, (we spoke) very directly together,” said Emery.
“I explained my opinion and how and why I wanted to create the team and that I was not sure he was going to be in my eleven players.
“He explained the decision was not easy for him, but he wanted to choose the best option for him.
“I know this player here is important for the supporters and grew up here in Arsenal, but I couldn’t guarantee him a place and he chose to leave here and I respect this.”
Emery also indicated he has been pressing the club to secure a deal for midfielder Aaron Ramsey. The Welshman has just a year left on his contract and Emery added: “He has the ambition I want and the type of ability that I want. I want to work with him.
“I’ve said to (chief executive) Ivan (Gazidis) that he’s an important player for me.”