Wenger blasts 'negative' fans

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The Gunners boss went head-to-head with supporters at a shareholders forum on Thursday evening where he faced stern criticism over a fourth consecutive trophyless campaign. Wenger was stung by suggestions his youthful squad lacked heart for a fight, and told fans they were partially responsible for the team's problems.

"It is easy to sit in the stand and say that they are not up for the fight," Wenger said. "What they have done in this season in a negative environment shows what they can do."

Referring to Manchester United's Champions League semi-final win at the Emirates, Wenger added: "There is a massive difference between the away fans, who are absolutely fantastic, and the home ones.

"It is always that negative way of thinking, that the players do not care.

"If we do not get there (to win a trophy) next year then I am responsible and will stand up for it. But what this team needs is people who are fans of the club."

Wenger railed at a shareholder's assertion that 31-year-old defender Mikael Silvestre was a "geriatric", while admitting that he would be willing to sell striker Emmanuel Adebayor - another who came in for criticism - to London rivals Chelsea.

However, he added: "Adebayor is part of our plans for the future.

"I believe he has been disturbed at the start of the season a little bit, by bad feelings from the fans because he was close to leaving."