There was a ripple of surprise among the press corps on Thursday when Steve Bould walked into the press conference room at London Colney.
The Arsenal assistant manager was standing in for an ill Arsene Wenger, and gave an insight into the Frenchman's "remarkable" hunger to succeed.
This is what Bouldy told the media:
on the boss’ mentality in the face of criticism…
I admire him immensely. He takes unbelievable stick off an awful lot of people and he’s just one of the great managers. It’s a pleasure for me to sit next to him.
on if the boss has been treated fairly…
I’m not here to answer those kind of questions. I’m sitting in for the Stoke game. I’d much prefer you to concentrate on football if possible.
on if that’s all connected…
I understand that he’s doing a great job, as far as I’m concerned and has done a great job for an awfully long time.
on whether Wenger’s desire to win is as strong as ever...
Absolutely. He’s remarkable. Behind closed doors I've never known someone who’s as hungry and determined to win football games. It’s as big as I’ve ever seen, for sure.
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