Wenger backing for Benitez

23 October 2009 16:33
Arsene Wenger believes the recent criticism levelled at Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is 'excessive'. Benitez's methods have come under close scrutiny following a run of four straight defeats - the Reds' worst run of results for 22 years. Things could get worse before they get better for Liverpool as they prepare to welcome champions Manchester United to Anfield on Sunday with star duo Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres struggling for fitness. Wenger understands what his counterpart is currently going through having come under flak himself last year following a succession of indifferent results. "It is always excessive," Wenger said when asked what he felt of the criticism aimed at Benitez. "We are, with a big club, in a job where you know that the moment the team goes through a difficult period, you get more stick than you should. Undeserved "But we know in our job as well that it is all part of it. I feel sorry that he gets that because he does not deserve it. "But we all basically understand within this job, that it is part of the rules." The Gunners boss added that managers of the 'big four' clubs had to be stronger than their rivals, as the smallest blip could result in an overreaction of negative vibes. "In a big club, you need to be extremely strong because you get a lot of negative vibes," he stated. "When you do not start well in the race for the Premier League, it's all negative around you. "What is happening to Liverpool today happened to us last year. "Every single question is negative for the whole season. You need to be extremely strong inside the club to deal with that."

Source: SKY_Sports