Tony Woodcock slams former club Arsenal for a ‘lack of drive’

Arsene Wenger, Arsenal

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Former Arsenal and FC Koln striker Tony Woodcock believes the current Emirates team lack the drive and consistency that they need to challenge for the title.

Woodcock was talking before Saturday’s friendly clash between his two former sides, and is of the opinion that the Gunners have lacked the bottle in the past two years, pointing out that they were given several opportunities to win competitions but ultimately failed in their quest to end the trophy drought that is now six-years long.

Speaking to Koln’s official website, Woodcock said: “In the past two years, Arsenal have not had enough drive.

“This, of course, is at a much higher level than Koeln. Arsenal were given the chance to be champions. In the decisive games, they lacked consistency.”

Ahead of the pre-season friendly between the two sides on Saturday, Woodcock is looking forward to seeing the teams pitting themselves against each other, adding that Arsene Wenger’s side are very much the favourites.

He continued: “I saw both teams very many times. If Arsenal fulfill their full potential and Koln too, then Arsenal will win. I’m an Koln fan, but everyone should approach this game realistically.

“Arsenal have great players and play a great style of football. Nevertheless, there is also criticism in London, because the fans want to live titles.

“In the past five years, Arsenal won no titles, and the upcoming match will be very exciting. I think the game is very interesting for both teams. Arsenal are the clear favourites, but last season Koln looked good against many favoured sides.

“I seriously hope that Koln win. The great fans in the RheinEnergieStadion deserve it. But it will be very difficult. One must not forget that it is a friendly game, wherein the focus is of course that no one gets injured.

“But especially for Koln this is a great opportunity to measure themselves against an absolute top club in Europe. It will be a great game.”