Arsène Wenger

• IT is the end of a glorious era for Arsenal football club, the club I love.

Arsène Wenger has transformed Arsenal and English football. I thank him for everything he has done, not just for the club, but for the community I represent, for inspiring countless young people to take up football.

Thank you, Arsène, for the beautiful football and the wonderful memories. For the three Premier League titles, the unbeaten 2003-04 season and a record-breaking seven FA Cups.

I first met him in 1996 when he was moving into Highbury. He was carrying a box full of paperwork, but he took time out to talk to my sons and their friends.

I remember him talking to youngsters at an Arsenal in the Community event, telling them how important it is to learn another language.

This is the side of Arsène Wenger that lots of people never get to see. Yes, he can be grumpy in interviews, having to answer often ridiculous questions and face criticism from pundits.

He sets an example that you can rise above this, and prove you are stronger than your critics. He is one of the finest football managers there has been. And I thank him for that.

Arsène, merci beaucoup et au revoir.

JEREMY CORBYN
Labour MP, Islington North