Friday, 11th April, 2014
Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour feels that the Gunners need to set an FA Cup win as a priority rather than focussing on finishing in the top four in the Premier League.
Arsene Wenger’s men were being termed as favourites to win the Premier League title this year, but a string of disappointing performances saw them drop to fourth in the league table, and they are now battling Everton for a top four spot to enable them to play in the Champions League next year.
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Wenger won his last trophy back in 2005, when his side beat Manchester United 5-4 on penalties to lift the FA Cup. But facing a nine-year trophy doubt since then, Parlour believes the Emirates Stadium outfit should aim for the final when they face Wigan Athletic in the semi-final of the knockout tournament at Wembley on Saturday.
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“If I had to pick fourth and no trophy, or fifth and a trophy, I would take the trophy”, the Englishman was quoted as saying by the BBC.
"It would give the club a big boost.
"I know the Champions League is important and great for the club financially but you don't want to be a professional footballer to make money for your club", he said.
"The whole objective is to win.
"If at the end of your career all you've got is coming fourth eight years running – what is that", the 41-year-old added.
The Latics, who are the defending champions, progressed into the last four after defeating Manchester City 2-1, and will be looking to stage another upset against a big side when they face Arsenal tomorrow.
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