Rio Ferdinand has called out Arsenal fans on his “Vibes with Five” podcast after the Gunners went top of the Premier League at the weekend. Mikel Arteta's men scored a late winner against Brentford at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday evening before Liverpool and Man City played out a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Sunday to leave Arsenal top of the league on goal difference.
Ferdinand, who won six Premier League titles throughout his career, has openly admitted that he wants Arsenal to win the league this season due to them being his preferred option over Man City and Liverpool, however, the behaviour of their fans is making him have second thoughts.
Speaking directly to the co-host of the podcast and Arsenal fan, Joel Beya, the former Man Utd and England defender said:
“There are three teams playing now to win the league which is Liverpool, Man City and Arsenal – I actually want you boys to win it. But, you and some of your fans make me not want you to win it”.
Are Arsenal fans getting carried away?
Ferdinand's comments on his podcast refer to the notion that Arsenal fans have a habit of getting carried away when things are going well for their club. Last season, they had a much more commanding lead at the top of the table and saw things slip away so this year, they will perhaps keep themselves grounded in what looks to be a thrilling end to the season.
However, if they do want to get excited then who can blame them? Arsenal haven't won the Premier League in 20 years and being at the top of the table at this stage of the season is unquestionably exciting. It is perhaps more down to the players to stay grounded than the fans, especially as the team will need energy in the stands for the run-in.
Echoing this sentiment, Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, has called on the club's supporters to help the team into the Champions League quarter-final when they face Porto on Tuesday night. Arteta said:
“We have an opportunity on Tuesday in front of our people, in our stadium for 96 minutes. Bring your energy, bring your noise and let’s do it together. I think the impact that they can make is incredible. I don’t think they realise.”