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In an exclusive interview with Football FanCast, John Hartson has said he hopes Arsenal will keep hold of Unai Emery, and that he thinks the Spaniard can lead the Gunners to a top-four finish this term.
Since arriving at the Emirates Stadium last summer, the former Sevilla boss has had plenty of ups and downs. It all started so well when, after two defeats against Manchester City and Chelsea at the beginning of the previous campaign, Arsenal went 22 games unbeaten in all competitions.
However, their form then dropped and, although they made the Europa League final, they were duly dispatched by Chelsea 4-1.
Hartson, though, would like to see the 47-year-old stay in north London. He explained, “I’d like to see them stick with Emery, I think he’s a good manager you know – he showed that last season particularly in the Europa League.”
And he added that he believes his former club will finish in the top four with him at the helm.
“I think Arsenal will finish in the top-four, I really do. I like the look of Arsenal, they just need to mentally concentrate in the big games and defend strongly – that’s what has been letting them down.
“Emery’s the man. Why change it now?”
So far this season, the Gunners have had a mixed time of it. They have won three, drawn two and lost one in the Premier League and, although they sit fourth in the table, they have not been fully convincing. That has been, at least in part, down to the defending Hartson mentioned.
Going forward, though, there is plenty to be positive about, particularly from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. If they can continue to pick up points and do manage to qualify for next season’s Champions League, then Emery’s position will be more than safe.
Given a bit more time to emphasise his influence on the side, there is no reason why the Gunners can’t compete for trophies in the future.