Arsene Wenger responds to Paul Scholes’ criticism of Arsenal

Arsene Wenger has brushed off Paul Scholes’ criticism of his Arsenal team as the Frenchman looks to guide his side to victory over Manchester City on Saturday.

The former Manchester United midfielder claimed that the Gunners are “a million miles” from being title challengers following their 2-2 draw against Swansea in midweek.

People who have managed zero games have opinions and we have to accept that

Arsene Wenger

Tuesday’s draw against the Swans left Wenger’s Arsenal fourth in the Premier League table and six points behind leaders Chelsea with seven games left to play.

But Wenger was quick to dismiss Scholes’ suggestions that the north Londoners are out of the title race.

“Look, if six points is a million miles away I don’t know what the translation is of a mile into a point,” said Wenger when asked about Scholes’ comments.

“Everybody has opinions. People who have managed zero games have opinions and we have to accept that. What you live is what you do on the pitch and the rest is only opinions.

“We are in a society with thousands of opinions today. Some go for you and some against you, you have to live with that.”

Wenger also launched a strong defence of Jack Wilshere after Scholes claimed that the midfielder has not improved since he was 17 years old.

“You cannot say that,” Wenger added. “Jack Wilshere is an exceptional player, for me.

“He has been handicapped by many injuries and once Jack is back and consistently on the pitch, he’ll show everybody around about that because he is an exceptional football player. Scholes knows that as well.”