Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 24 October 2008 )

English Premiership Football News

Wenger concerned by Gallas photo
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says a photo of club captain William Gallas leaving a nightclub with a cigarette in his mouth is unacceptable.

And while Wenger has confirmed he will speak with 31 years of defending the matter, he insists he is the right choice to lead the Gunners.

"I will check this with him. He has a responsibility as captain of Arsenal and can not be accepted," he said.

"William has his critics, but what you can never fault him is motivation."

The Arsenal boss, speaking before Sunday's Premier League visit to Upton Park to face West Ham, said that despite photography, Gallas has responded to criticism from last season.

The former central to the defense of Chelsea, who has recovered from a recent thigh injury, came to criticism of last season after losing his Composure in late February in a draw at Birmingham City in Fa Barclaycard Premiership.

Gallas sitting on the lawn after the Gunners were held to a draw and Wenger considered stripping him of the Captaincy before sticking with the French international.

The images showed Gallas leaving a nightclub in London in the early hours of October 25 newspapers, but said that the cigarette is not lit.

"I did not see the image. Have I been informed, but I'm not like that," added Wenger.

"This is a public with a public responsibility and it is exactly the same for everybody."

However, Wenger believes Gallas that rose from the disappointment of last season.

"I learned a lot. It took a lot of criticism, of course, but I think I've taken in a positive direction, "said the coach.

"He came himself and said:" I made a mistake last year and I'm gonna change and re-treat my attitude. "

Gallas has scored important goals this season in the Champions League against the Dynamo Kiev and FC Twente, but Wenger regarding his presence as crucial to guide a young side.

"He wants to do, he wants his team to win and I made a mistake - who does not?" Wenger said.

"Even the great masters make mistakes. William've worked very hard to return from his injury and now looks very strong."
by bbcnews.