WENGER TAKING NOTHING FOR GRANTED

With the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, Wenger is now the longest-serving boss in the top flight, while the managerial changes at both Manchester City and Chelsea could offer Arsenal the advantage of stability when the new campaign kicks off this weekend.

Wenger, though, warned against any suggestions life would thus be made somewhat more straightforward for Arsenal, who have not won a trophy since 2005.

"The fact that of the four top teams last year, three have changed manager will certainly create the most interest to see how they all respond to that," Wenger told Arsenal Player.

"These teams changed managers, but there is a stability there [in terms of the players], so that shouldn't create too much uncertainty.

"(But) let's not expect presents from these clubs because that would be the wrong way to go into the championship - let's just think they will be as strong as ever and make sure that we are strong."

England midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - who was one of three Gunners involved against Scotland at Wembley on Wednesday - also stressed Arsenal must deliver consistency, having gone on an unbeaten 10-match league run at the end of last season.

"We have got to focus on our job in hand," he said.

"I am sure for the neutral looking in, with the managerial changes and players coming in, it always makes it exciting, that is what the Premier League is all about.

"I am sure it is going to be a really good season, another exciting one."

Source: PA

Source: PA