Source: Team_Talk
Wenger hits out at fixture compilers
The Gunners had to settle for a 1-1 draw at Turf Moor after Graham Alexander's penalty cancelled out Cesc Fabregas' early strike.[LNB]The result was a setback to Arsenal's title hopes and came 24 hours after rivals Manchester United had cruised to a 3-0 win against a below-strength Wolves.[LNB]Wenger was frustrated at having to face tougher opposition and was also angered that this weekend's opponents, Hull, have not played this week.[LNB]Hull had originally been scheduled to face Everton this week but the fixture was moved to November because of the Merseyside club's European commitments.[LNB]Wenger said: "I think the Premier League has a basic promise to organise the fixtures in a normal way.[LNB]"The guy who organised the fixtures this season must have come out of a special school, because he is more intelligent than I am![LNB]"For sure, he has never played football, organising midweek games in a week when you have a Europa League.[LNB]"We have some teams who do not play at all. We play Sunday and Wednesday away and at home on Saturday against Hull, who have not played all week.[LNB]"It is also damaging for Burnley."[LNB]On the subject of McCarthy's team selection, the Frenchman was equally forthright.[LNB]Wenger said: "It is sad, but what can I do about that? I am responsible for Arsenal.[LNB]"We compete with Manchester United over 37 games instead of 38.[LNB]"I believe it is a problem for the international credibility of the Premier League, but it is not my problem, it is a Premier League problem."[LNB]In a further blow for the Gunners, Fabregas was forced off with a hamstring injury before half-time and will definitely miss the Hull clash.[LNB]Wenger was disappointed not to have followed up Sunday's win at Liverpool with another.[LNB]"I always wanted six points," he said. "Really I expected more to drop two points at Liverpool than here but I believe Burnley had a very good time tonight.[LNB]"They did not have one moment when they lost focus."[LNB]Burnley also have a say in the Wolves debate as they now travel to Molineux to face a presumably well-rested side on Sunday, but boss Owen Coyle was unwilling to criticise.[LNB]Coyle said: "If that is the motivation for Wolves, to galvanise them, then so be it.[LNB]"Mick McCarthy is an outstanding manager and fantastic man, somebody I have a lot of time for.[LNB]"He has done a fantastic job at Wolves and does what he sees fit for Wolverhampton.[LNB]"They have not been found wanting under his tenure so far. He has made that decision and has a squad of players that are good enough to wear the Wolverhampton shirt.[LNB]"We have to make sure we are ready, come the game on Sunday, to give our best."[LNB]Coyle was delighted with his side's performance tonight in a compelling encounter in which both sides had numerous chances.[LNB]Burnley twice hit the woodwork and Steven Fletcher had a goal ruled out for offside after Manuel Almunia missed a cross in the second half.[LNB]Coyle said: "It was a very valauble point, no doubt. Both sides will feel at different stages they could have taken all three.[LNB]"The lads showed real character, dug in and got back into the game. They really took the game to Arsenal.[LNB]"I do believe if they continue to perform at that level they will earn points in this league.[LNB]"Our goal is to maintain our Premier League status and we need performances like that to make sure we do."[LNB][LNB]
