Wenger hails 'special' Fergie

Ferguson & Wenger: Mutual respect

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Arsene Wenger believes Sir Alex Ferguson has shown 'special qualities' to reach 700 Premier League games as Manchester United boss.

The Scot, who took the reins at Old Trafford in 1986, is set to reach that landmark when the Red Devils face Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday.

During his Old Trafford reign Ferguson has enjoyed countless battles with managerial counterparts, with some of those boiling over at times.

He has not always seen eye to eye with Gunners chief Wenger, with bust-ups aplenty between the two flaring up in the past, but their relationship has mellowed somewhat over the years.

There is a now a mutual respect between the pair, with both men striving to establish their club as the dominant force in English football.

Dedication

Wenger, who himself is now in his 14th season with the Gunners, has some way to go to catch his Old Trafford adversary, but the Frenchman is full of admiration for the way Ferguson continues to go about his business.

"It is dedication and it is a fantastic achievement," Wenger said.

"He deserves a lot of credit to show such consistency at the top level which needs special qualities and special dedication.

"That certainly means 700 sleepless nights before and 700 sleepless nights sometimes after the game!"