Title-winning manager Mikel Arteta has signed a new deal [Will-Palmer/SPP]

ARSENAL are facing criticism for planning up to 60 backroom staff redundancies – just months after becoming the champions of England.

The title-winners were reported to have begun an internal consultation process before the end of last season.

The catering and travel departments were said to be affected but the Arsenal In The Community projects will not be affected.

Manager Mikel Arteta, who last week signed a new contract with the club, was asked about the cuts after the Gunners win on Sunday, replying: “It was explained to me about the exercise, and the analysis that has been done across the club, and with the intention always to improve.”