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Wenger urges fans to raise the volume to silence Rossi and Co
James Olley15 Apr 2009
Arsene Wenger wants Arsenal supporters to turn Emirates Stadium into a hostile atmosphere for the visit of Villarreal.
The Gunners manager hit back at claims from former Manchester United striker Giuseppe Rossi that the home fans "won't be a major influence" on proceedings.
Wenger, who has criticised Arsenal followers in the past for a lack of noise, believes the stadium will be at fever pitch at kick-off tonight.
He said: "I would want an intimidating atmosphere and I count on our supporters to be strongly behind the team in a fair way. England has a reputation abroad that the fans really have a strong voice behind the team. I am convinced our fans will do that tonight."
Meanwhile, Le Mans midfielder Mathieu Coutadeur has opened the door to a summer move to Arsenal by hinting he is ready to leave France.
It is understood the Gunners have been keeping tabs on the 22-year-old midfielder, who has one year left on his contract.
Coutadeur is thought to have an agreement in place that allows him to move on should a big club bid for him in the summer.
Reader views (2)
The Emirates was ON FIRE!!!!!!
intimidating atmosphere he wanted, and that's exactly what he got.
In Wenger We Trust!
- Dean, London, 15/04/2009 22:26
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The only noise that comes out of the Emirates thesedays is the constant harping on about "mental strength" and "how good we are" etc etc. Like most 21st century designed stadia, the place is absolutely soulless (my Arsenal supporting friends even agree) - a good percentage of the support leave 10 mins before the end of every game ! Oh... that reminds me - I must take my book back to the library later.
- Mark, Essex, 15/04/2009 13:36
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