Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger must get tough in the transfer market - or else admit that he needs assistance

Wenger has earned respect. He has earned the right for discussions about his future to be conducted with intelligence not pitch-forks. He can still prepare a team well. He still represents a great club with decorum.

Clear-eyed, rather than blood-shot focus on the Wenger situation reveals that this is a manager who needs help in the transfer market. It is sad but true: the man who built the Invincibles has become a ditherer when it comes to signings, has become far too hesitant at closing a deal. He prevaricates when scouts come to him with targets. He hates overspending even if it is the only solution. If Wenger looked to bring in a new tea-lady, he would be torn over one sugar or two.

Player representatives, whether agents or lawyers, confide frustration at being kept waiting for Wenger to make a decision when they have got other clubs not only on speed-dial but on hold, seeking to conclude negotiations.

Nobody should weep for agents but Arsenal fans should weep at the missed opportunities, the number of players who moved elsewhere while Wenger dawdled.

link: telegraph