Arsenal’s trashing by struggling relegation bound Crystal Palace 3-0 yesterday left more fans furious than ever right before the end of the match at Selhurst Park with many of the traveling fans displaying prepared placards stating; ‘Enough is Enough, Wenger Out’
They watch in disbelief, as sixth-placed Arsenal did not manage a shot on target in a poor second half. They had 72 possession as against Palace’s 37
The gunners are seven points adrift of fourth-placed Manchester City with eight games remaining.
The manner of Arsenal’s performance – disorganized, devoid of attacking ideas and lacking fight – will increase the scrutiny on Wenger yet again.
The 67-year-old Wenger has already faced protests from some supporters urging him to leave, with more calls clearly audible
Wenger’s contract expires at the end of the season and the club has offered him a new two-year deal, although he is still to announce whether he intends to carry on.
Last week he said loud and clear that the decision to remain or quit is not in his hands but that of Arsenal, meaning he is ready to leave out his renewed contract even if the worst happens.
Stand-in captain, Theo Walcott comment is damaging both to the players and Wenger. He said; “Palace wanted it more. You could sense that from the kick-off”
Sore Points Against Wenger
Arsene Wenger has suffered four consecutive away Premier League defeats for the first time as Arsenal manager.
This is Arsenal’s worst away Premier League run since April 1995 (also four defeats in a row) when Stewart Houston managed them.
Wenger lost for the first time against Palace in 12 top-flight matches.
Arsenal conceded three goals in four consecutive away league games for the first time since September 1929.
In the past eight Premier League games, only Sunderland (six) have lost more games than Arsenal (five).
What the managers said after the match
Crystal Palace manager Sam Allardyce, speaking to Sky Sports: “Tactically the players were aware of how to beat Arsenal. The first thing was to defend and frustrate them, keep them playing sideways, then use the space behind the full-backs. Arsenal have been weak defensively, they leave the centre-backs exposed.
“We won a lot of possession off them and created lots of chances. Cabaye’s goal, what a finish – and that was down to us as we kept pressing them. It wasn’t a shock for me because we played Chelsea and won that game. The result might be a shock, but we did that again and did it better.
“We all know Arsenal are going through their worst spell for years, but the only way to take advantage is by playing well. Everything worked perfectly for us today.”
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, speaking to BBC Sport: “We lost too many duels and we paid for that. There is no obvious reason why. We prepared well. It’s difficult to explain just after the game.
“I don’t think my players didn’t want it, but we lost duels in decisive moments and that’s how games are decided at this level.
“I understand our fans are disappointed and we all are deeply tonight. It’s very worrying and disappointing the way we lost the game. Palace were sharp, they beat Chelsea the other day, and that shows they have quality. We are in a difficult position. The game doesn’t help.”
