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Gary Neville: Arsene Wenger should stay as Arsenal manager

Arsene Wenger looks on during Arsenal's match with Liverpool
Image: Arsene Wenger looks on during Arsenal's defeat to Liverpool

Gary Neville thinks Arsene Wenger should continue at Arsenal and expects "massive admiration" when he does eventually leave the club.

Wenger has been in charge of the Gunners for 20 years, but his position appears to be coming under growing scrutiny.

LISTEN: Gary Neville Podcast
LISTEN: Gary Neville Podcast

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There was some booing at the Emirates on Sunday as Arsenal started their 2016/17 Premier League season with a 4-3 defeat to Liverpool.

Speaking on the first Gary Neville Podcast of the season, Neville said it is an "incredible situation" at the club with regard to Wenger.

When you sign five or six players and sack your manager, it's almost like fans are invigorated again.
Gary Neville

"I am sure when Arsene Wenger is not here, there will be a massive amount of admiration for what he has achieved at this football club," he commented. "I would advocate him staying on because it feels like we have new managers every 10 minutes and he is a stalwart.

"You look at what he has achieved - he is the most successful manager in their history.

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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admits his side lacked experience and stability

"Unfortunately the shame of modern football as it is, we don't appreciate stability and continuity as much as we should. When you sign five or six players and sack your manager, it's almost like fans are invigorated again."

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However, Neville added: "There is a feeling among some fans that Arsenal are lacking inspiration and it shouldn't be like that on the first day of the season.

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"Some Arsenal fans are feeling a bit tired."

Arsenal started brightly at the Emirates but were undone by four goals in a 20-minute spell either side of half-time.

"It didn't feel like an opening weekend game," said Neville. "There was a point in the second half when it felt like a cup match, end to end.

"The first half Arsenal were the better team, Liverpool just didn't play. But the big moment in the game was the Philippe Coutinho free-kick just before half-time. It was a killer blow for an Arsenal team lacking experience and leadership."

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Don't miss Neville's return to Monday Night Football for Chelsea v West Ham, live on Sky Sports 1 from 7pm.

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