‘We need to learn to take fan criticism’

2:14

Arsenal manager Unai Emery says the club ‘need’ Shkodran Mustafi

Arsenal manager Unai Emery says the club ‘need’ Shkodran Mustafi

Arsenal head coach Unai Emery says his side need to learn from fans’ criticism, but he objects to the “insults” being aimed at his players.

Shkodran Mustafi came in for widespread criticism following his performance during the 3-2 defeat against Crystal Palace on Sunday which dented Arsenal’s hopes of finishing in the top four.

With the game at 1-1, Mustafi made no attempt to deal with a long ball over the top in the hope his goalkeeper Bernd Leno would come out to smother, allowing Zaha to race through and score.

2:27

Emery says Arsenal’s top-four ambitions are in their own hands as they head to Wolves on Wednesday night

Emery says Arsenal’s top-four ambitions are in their own hands as they head to Wolves on Wednesday night

The Germany international was subjected to abuse from many Arsenal fans on social media, but speaking ahead of Wednesday’s game against Wolves at Molineux, Emery said Mustafi remains in his plans.

“I believe in him, he needs to improve things tactically and decisions, but he has good qualities and he needs confidence,” said Emery.

2:58

Highlights from Crystal Palace’s 3-2 win at Arsenal in the Premier League

Highlights from Crystal Palace’s 3-2 win at Arsenal in the Premier League

“Now maybe he has lost a little confidence but my work is to help him. I am going to protect and help every player but we need to take the criticism and be strong.

“We need him, we need every player and I am going to use every player to help us. At the moment we need to focus only on the next match and protect them (the players) and take confidence.

“My work is to help them do their best in the 90 minutes. Receiving criticism after Sunday is normal, the players know that, we need to improve and we need our supporters. We know sometimes we take criticism but sometimes we also need to receive praise.

“I am going to help my players and all the supporters who love Arsenal (Football) Club I prefer to do that. But I know it is not easy and I know they are going to criticise when they are in the stands or watching on the TV.

“We need to learn to take this. For us we need to protect the players and the supporters can do that.

“Personally I am not happy with the insults, it’s something I don’t want.”

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