Wenger hits back at 'excessive' criticism of Arsenal

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has hit back over criticism levelled against his side after their Premier League title chances appeared to be faltering, describing it as 'excessive' and 'too emotional'.

Arsenal suffered a 2-3 defeat at the hands of injury-ravaged Manchester United, leaving the Wenger's side five points below league leaders Leicester City and also compromising the club's chances to end their 12-year wait for the title.

Following the defeat, former Liverpool manager Graeme Souness lashed out at Arsenal and branded them as "weak and insipid".

Meanwhile, former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson called on Wenger to leave the club if they do not clinch the title.

Reflecting on the same, the Frenchman said that he was not at all surprised by the criticism and called on his side to deal with it,Sport24 reported.

He urged the people to place things into perspective and analyse them in a bit more neutral way.

Wenger, however, believes that the Emirates Stadium club was respected all over the world despite the constant criticism against them.

Arsenal will now lock horns with Tottenham on Saturday.