January 16, 2007

Arsene Wenger Tribute

Arsene Wenger became the latest recipient of the FWA Tribute Award when he was honoured at The Savoy on January 16th.

The Arsenal manager, pictured receiving his award from FWA Chairman Gerry Cox, joined a long line of football legends to have been honoured for their contribution to the game.

Wenger's side went a whole season unbeaten in the Barclaycard Premiership during 2003/04, the first side to do so since Preston's Invincibles in the 19th Century.

Wenger was also recognised for ushering in an era of unparalleled success at Highbury, winning the League and Cup double twice among a total of three Premiership titles and three FA Cups.

A packed house of over 400 guests including former winners Sir Bobby Robson, Sir Geoff Hurst, Gary Lineker, Pat Jennings and Sir Trevor Brooking, heard how Wenger had transformed Arsenal. His fellow Frenchman Gerard Houllier, raising a toast to the FWA, also spoke about how they had both been entranced by English football from the moment they walked into Anfield as young coaches.

And Gerry Cox added that Wenger had helped changed management in England, introducing a scientific approach and more methodical preparation. Wenger spoke of the pressures of management and asked "Who motivates the motivators?" before thanking the FWA for their tribute.

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