Arsenal legends don’t come much bigger than Tony Adams. The defender played for the Gunners for two decades and won four First Division / Premier League titles during his time at the club. Here’s Adams talking about playing under Arsene Wenger, the move to bring Jens Lehmann back to the club and Arsenal’s chances of winning the Premier League title this season…
What is your view of the work Arsene Wenger has done at Arsenal in the last 15 years?
He’s been phenomenal, he’s a great man, and he’s a lovely man. Very honest, honest with his players. Physiology is his strength and he’s just been a revolution for Arsenal. You’re talking to a big fan of Arsene Wenger, he was brilliant for me.
Has he been a big influence on your coaching style?
[ad_pod id=’unruly’ align=’right’]
Well there are many influences. In life, you are what you learn and he’s certainly taught me a great deal. The answer to whether I have actually used it yet at the clubs that I have worked at is, probably not to be completely honest with you. He’s a fantastic physiologist in my opinion, that’s his strength. I’ve been at clubs where that side of the game is not really used. I had technically gifted young players at Feyenoord but I wasn’t really in control of their diets and their physiology. But yes of course he has been an influence.
Do you think this current Arsenal squad can win major silverware?
During the winter break I went back there for the game against Manchester City and I did a couple of interviews and I honestly thought the League Cup was the one for them this season to start the ball rolling. Unfortunately they missed out on that one; I’d like to see them win a trophy soon.
What do you make of the re-signing of Jens Lehmann?
Well I’m thinking of getting the boots back on! I think Jens is a fantastic goalkeeper. I know they’ve got some injuries there including to young Wojciech Szczesny who I like. Arsene needs cover in the goal keeping position and I see the logic in bringing Jens Lehman back.
Who do you think will win this season’s Barclays Premier League title?
My heart says the Arsenal of course but my head says United, they’ve just got too many players who’ve won it before. When you have done it and you’ve crossed the line, you know when to peak and when not to peak and when to win games. Once you’ve done it once, you know when to step up to the plate.
Visit the Dugout www.yahoo.co.uk/dugout for new interviews every week with England’s top football managers
[divider]