Arsene Wenger sent a video message to Lincoln City during their Awards Dinner, celebrating the success they’ve achieved this season.

Promotion to League Two and an impressive FA Cup run to the quarter-finals meant that Danny Cowley’s side rapidly gained supporters for their performances, surprising sceptics along the way whilst juggling a testing National League schedule.

They finished four points clear at the top of the table with 99 points from their 46 matches whilst they lost only once in twelve league matches following the 5-0 away defeat by the Gunners as their fairy-tale came to an end against this year’s finalists.

During the message, Wenger congratulated the Imps for their efforts this term whilst wishing them well for next season – which was greeted by a round of applause from the audience.

Following the 5-0 defeat back in March, Cowley revealed Wenger had given him and brother Nicky, his assistant manager, some invaluable help in the Frenchman’s office.

When questioned about what was said he revealed, “We had about an hour and a half with Arsene Wenger after the game and that will be invaluable, something we will cherish forever.

“The fact that he was willing to give us an hour, an hour and a half of his time after the week he’s had says everything about that man.

“He still spoke really passionately, still has a real affection for the game and when you consider the amount of criticism he has had recently, the fact he still loves the game and talks with such enthusiasm was brilliant.“