Wenger: criticism of Benitez is excessive

ARSENE WENGER believes the criticism levelled at under-fire Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is undeserved and “excessive”.

The Reds are in their worst run of form for 22 years, with four defeats in the Premier League already, and face a crunch clash at leaders Manchester United tomorrow.

Arsenal manager Wenger, though, feels the Spaniard – who won the Champions League against AC Milan in 2005, and reached the final again two years later — should be given more respect for what he has achieved.