Ian Wright has praised the impact Unai Emery has had at Arsenal, saying his ‘ruthlessness’ is just what the club needed following the departure of Arsene Wenger.
Emery joined Arsenal in May following Wenger’s departure after 22 years in north London.
The Spaniard’s tenure got off to an inauspicious start, with defeats in his opening two matches in charge against Manchester City and Chelsea.
However, the Gunners have yet to lose in 18 matches since, including a run of 11 successive victories between August and the end of October.
It’s seen the club progress in the EFL Cup, reach the knockout stages of the Europa League and move to within one point of the top four.
They face third-placed Tottenham on Sunday knowing victory would see them draw level on points with their north London rivals.
Wright has certainly been impressed with what Emery has achieved so far and says everyone at the club feels the same way.
“I love the ruthlessness.” Wright was quoted as saying on Reddit. “I love that the team comes first over every player. He makes substitutions when we need it and we've seen he is willing to substitute someone at half-time.
“Everyone around the club only has positive things to say and that's not easy when all they know for such a long time is one manager.
“The players he's added to the squad have been a success and his plan for integrating them was perfect."
One player who has featured regularly for Emery this season is Granit Xhaka, with the Switzerland midfielder having made 14 appearances in all competitions so far.
Wright, however, isn’t convinced and questions whether he will be able to keep his place in the long-term
“There is no doubt in his football ability,” he added. “He has a fantastic left foot and has a great passing range.
“But speaking honestly he is a player that worries me - simply because of the lack of concentration with his defensive duties.
“Wolves and Cardiff are two good examples. I do like [seeing] him trying to organise the team and get people into the right positions, so he does show leadership on the field.
“But in my opinion if Arsenal were able to really show some muscle in the transfer market then he would be a fantastic squad player.”