Arsenal boss unhappy over Gallas cigarette picture

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said it was unacceptable for captain William Gallas to be pictured in public holding a cigarette but stressed the veteran defender was the right man to lead the club.

Centre-half Gallas, due to return for Sunday's Premier League match against London rivals West Ham following a thigh injury, was photographed leaving a nightclub holding a cigarette in his mouth, although it was unlit.

“I didn't see the picture. I have been informed, but I don't like that,” Wenger said. “I will check that with him. He has a responsibility as captain of Arsenal Football Club. That cannot be accepted.

“It is a public job with a public responsibility and therefore it is exactly the same for everybody.”

But Wenger said of his fellow Frenchman: “I believe that William has a very fair assessment of his performances. William has worked very hard to come back from his injury and looks very sharp now.”

Gallas's credentials as a captain were called into question following a sit-down protest in the centre circle after the end of last season's league match away to Birmingham.

However, Wenger added: “He has learned a lot. He has taken a lot of criticism, of course, but I think he took it in a positive way.

“He has learned a lot and he himself has come out and said, 'I made a mistake last year and I will change and re-address my attitude'.

“I believe he has got a lot of unfair critics and therefore I believe the fact that he could take it and he is still as motivated.

“What you can never fault with William is the motivation.

“He wants to do well, he wants his team to win and he has made a mistake – who didn't? Even great captains, we all make mistakes.”

Arsenal travel across London on Sunday bidding to close a four-point gap on leaders Chelsea and Liverpool.