Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has shown faith in Arsene Wenger’s ability to recover from last term’s forgettable season and believes Arsenal will be stronger next season.

He spoke last week about the importance of competing with their domestic rivals for acquisitions in much more of an effective way. But in a recent interview in ESPN, he’s stated his belief that the club will be stronger next term too.

“I’m happy, I’m a big fan of Arsene. I know what he did for me while I was at Monaco. I know what he did for me in England as well.

“I know he’s been criticised in the past two years, even more this year, but I know what he’s achieved, what he’s achieved in English football.”

Wenger has won three Premier League titles, six Community Shields and seven FA Cup trophies since becoming Arsenal manager in September 1996.

Many feel the silverware haul is not impressive enough over two decades to justify a contract extension any longer, having already stabilised the club during the seasons that followed the stadium move to the Emirates in 2006/07.

Petit has said he sees both sides of the argument and insists Arsene will make important steps to try and silence his critics once more.

“I can understand the frustration of the fans, some players’ frustration too but I think Arsene will be back very strong next year.

“I trust Arsene. As top class players, as big clubs, this kind of bad period can happen, but top class players or managers never die, they always come back.“