Wenger wants riches on the pitch

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The Gunners released figures which showed their move to Emirates Stadium helped increase turnover to more than £200million, well in excess of their top-flight rivals but while they may now dwarf even Manchester United and Chelsea off the field, Wenger left no doubt his priorities lay with overshadowing them on it.

He told ArsenalTV Online: "Personally, I'd rather just be top of the league - because finances usually follow the sporting side."

He added: "I think that that is the priority at this club, to focus on what is important on the pitch - and knowing that if we do that well finances will follow if you manage the club well.

"I am happy we have a good operating profit. It shows that the turnover of this club is fantastic and that we have made the step forward by moving into the new stadium."

Gunners managing director Keith Edelman even quipped Wenger pleaded with the board to report that the club were "poor", to avoid being ripped off in the transfer market.

On the prospect of spending the £70million war chest he now has available, Wenger said: "Only if it is needed.

"The money is there to help you create a good team; when you feel you have a good team you do not necessarily need to spend it.

"You need as well in a club like ours funds available in case of an emergency, in case of big injuries or sometimes to make a quick buy. Therefore, you have to use the money as wisely as possible."