'Arsenal coaches have reservations' about Arsene Wenger's defensive tactics, whilst Steve Bould has been 'ignored'

The Gunners let a lead slip for a second game in a row at the weekend

Simon Rice
Tuesday 11 November 2014 12:17 GMT
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Arsene Wenger reacts during Arsenal's 2-1 defeat to Swansea
Arsene Wenger reacts during Arsenal's 2-1 defeat to Swansea (Getty Images)

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Arsenal coaches and staff are concerned about Arsene Wenger's defensive tactics, according to reports today.

The Arsenal manager has overseen his side letting slip a lead in their last two outings, with the 2-1 defeat against Swansea of particular concern for a perceived failure to learn any lessons from the draw with Anderlecht a few days before.

Despite letting a three goal advantage go against their Belgian Champions League opponents, Wenger opted to continue with left-back Nacho Monreal at centre-back rather than work a way of putting Calum Chambers in the centre.

Monreal has looked uncomfortable alongside Per Mertesacker and Swansea looked to exploit that with crosses aimed in the Spaniard's direction. Those tactics paid off with Bafetimbi Gomis scoring the winner with a header after out-jumping Monreal.

Former player Paul Merson was particular outspoken about Arsenal's tactics following the draw with Anderlecht when he referred to the side as "clueless" numerous times in his analysis of the game for Sky Sports. He is not the only former player with concerns.

Wenger's assistant Steve Bould has a defensive outlook owing to his role as a centre-back during his playing days, yet former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has suggested Bould was ignored over his transfer recommendations.

"What is worrying is that Steve Bould is there (and these mistakes are happening)," Wright told BBC Radio 5 Live at the weekend.

"I know there are players Steve Bould has recommended to Arsenal that they've not taken. That needs to change."

It has been reported today that other backroom figures at the Emirates have concerns about Wenger's tactics. The Gunners' next match is at home to Manchester United.

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