Stoke defender Ryan Shawcross has hit back at Arsene Wenger’s recent criticism of him.
The Arsenal manager has accused Shawcross and defensive partner Robert Huth of acting like rugby players rather than footballers, claiming they were guilty of fouling Tottenham goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes during the 2-1 defeat.
But Shawcross, who was involved in a challenge with Aaron Ramsey that left the Gunners midfielder with a broken leg last season, believes the Frenchman is pursuing a personal vendetta against him.
He told The Sentinel: “I don’t mind people having their opinions, but if it’s not a game involving his players then I don’t see the point of bringing up me and Huthy.
“I’ve watched the video again and at no point did I go anywhere near Gomes. I didn’t think I had, but I didn’t want to say I hadn’t touched him before looking at the whole video to make sure.
“(Wenger’s) obviously got something against me. It’s just weird. He brings my name into it. He always seems to have a problem with Stoke, our manager and certain players.
“Criticism doesn’t bother me, unless it’s a false accusation like this one. It’s just disappointing he came out and said something that wasn’t needed.”