Thierry Henry speaks on Arsenal's woes, wants Arsene Wenger to stay

London, Feb 8: Former Arsenal striker and club legend Thierry Henry has backed manager Arsene Wenger to stay at the club but asked players to improve their mentality.

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Arsenal are going through tough times at the moment. After starting the season as a strong title contender, they are slowly drifting away from the top. [Koscielny criticises Wenger's team selection]

Back to back defeats against Watford and Chelsea in the last two game weeks have widened the gap with toppers Chelsea to 12 points.

As Arsenal once again moves away from the title race, their iconic manager Arsene Wenger had to face firm criticism from several sections.

Wenger's contract expires by the end of this season and as per rumours the Frenchman will be offered a new 2-year contract.

Fans have a mixed opinion regarding Wenger's tenure extension as several wants the veteran manager to leave the club for its betterment.

Joining the debate, Thierry Henry, speaking to RMC said: "Personally, I do not think Arsene (Wenger) has to go. The work he has to do at the moment is difficult because it is mental work.

"What I saw against Chelsea is a mental problem. I don't want to go into details but that is why Arsene's job is very complicated because it is a mental problem. And it's not easy to manage.

"Every time Arsenal can put pressure on the leaders or put the pressure on others by being first, usually in that match, they lose and then you lose confidence and bad results follow. The problem is more mental than quality.

"It's been 12 years since Arsenal did not win the title and we feel this season they may not win it. I think there is quality in this team. But is there enough to win the championship?

"Is there enough quality to win the title and if you look on paper, we can debate that, but, on paper, there is enough.

"At the beginning of the season, when you look at Chelsea and Arsenal on paper, there is not a huge difference. So that means it's possible. If Chelsea is ahead, Arsenal too can do it.

"But for that, you have to be in tune with every day. You have to be good at training all the time. You have to get in a little bit from time to time.

"I think Arsenal players are not aware of what they can achieve. At some point you have to believe in your chances of winning.

"It takes self-management and self-discipline in the group. Sometimes you lose momentum and then you wake up and it is the end of the season."

Arsenal face Hull City in coming game week on Saturday, February 11.

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