Wenger lit up at Monaco

Arsene Wenger smoked to ease the pressure at Monaco.

Yesterday’s Champions League draw set up a reunion between Arsene Wenger and former employers Monaco.

Much has changed since Wenger’s seven-year spell at Monaco ended in 1994. Just how much became clear in the aftermath of yesterday’s draw when pictures emerged of Wenger, who has been widely credited for revolutionising dietary methods in England, smoking in the dugout during a Monaco game.

The pictures will make embarrassing viewing for Wenger given he has twice reprimanded Jack Wilshere for smoking, arguing: “I completely disagree with that behaviour.”

Wenger has previously admitted to smoking in his early coaching days, explaining he might have a puff if he was struggling to sleep after a loss.

Arsenal fans will hope the boss won’t have cause to pine for a ciggie when he returns to Stade Louis II on March 17.