Board's backing vital, says Wenger

Arsene Wenger, one of the world’s most sought-after managers, today revealed the unequivocal support of the Arsenal board had persuaded him to stay at Highbury rather than seek another job.

The Frenchman took over in 1996 and has stayed faithful to the club in the eight years since, despite reported interested from a host of European giants.

He has guided the Gunners to three FA Cup victories and his side now stand on the brink of their third title success.

With six games to play, Arsenal – unbeaten in all 32 league matches this season – are seven points clear of Chelsea, who have played a game more.

And Wenger, who has pledged to lead the club into their new Ashburton Grove home in August 2006, told the club’s website, www.arsenal.com: “The board are very supportive. It’s a 100% supportive atmosphere and that’s why I’m still here.

“There was a time when the board had to be strong and they were. That’s what makes the club special, as there’s a trust that you don’t find in many places.”

Wenger’s skipper Patrick Vieira believes the side’s spirit prevented their surprise FA Cup and Champions League exits having a knock-on effect on their league campaign.

Arsenal beat Liverpool and drew with Newcastle over Easter and Vieira said: “I’m proud to be captain. Everybody gives their best.

“The atmosphere in the dressing room is fantastic.

“We have a good time and our togetherness is important. That showed against Newcastle because we were quite tired.”

The Gunners could take another giant step towards the championship crown on Friday night, when they face Leeds at Highbury.

Freddie Ljungberg and Ashley Cole are likely to miss out through injury but Ray Parlour could make a dramatic comeback despite limping out of a reserves match last night.

The midfielder, playing his first match since suffering a knee ligament injury two months ago, went over on his ankle against Portsmouth and came off after 65 minutes.

But reserve team coach Eddie Niedzwiecki said: “He’s fine and hopefully he’ll be up for selection against Leeds.

“It’s certainly a timely return. There are six games to go and we’ve missed his presence around the first-team squad.”