THE TALK
ARSENAL. POSTED BY STEVE BARNETT.

THERE isn't a football fan in the world who doesn't believe at some point they know best. Whether in a pub supping a pint of bitter or during a kick about with their mates in the park, they have all the answers. 

The formation England need to win the World Cup, why Spurs will never break into the so-called "Top Four" or who really is quicker; Aaron Lennon or Theo Walcott? 

This week, however, I think some fans were proved wrong, and more importantly owe Arsene Wenger an apology.   It's embarrassing enough when you hear short-sighted supporters questioning whether or not the Frenchman is still the right man for Arsenal, let alone when they then try and justify their reasoning. 

Among the fans' tantrums I've heard so far are; "Arsenal will win nothing because Wenger is treating Arsenal's purse-strings as his own" and "He's lost the plot, we haven't won anything in five years - so lets replace him".

Well last night I watched Real Madrid get dumped out of the Champions League by Lyon. The Spanish giants spent in the region of £200 million on the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Kaka, yet they won't be lifting Europe's top prize this season. 

Splashing the cash may bring instant highs, but they will be short-lived and, much like quicksand, is not something you want to build your club on.  

I'm not saying Arsenal will necessarily win something this season, but unlike Real Madrid they're still vying for their two biggest trophies. 

Failure to lift silverware will perhaps see some of Arsenal's big stars leave, but so long as Wenger is in charge they will be replaced - and more importantly fans will still have a club to support. 

1.42PM March 11, 2010

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