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Arsenal legend Paul Merson believes Chris Wilder should be in contention to replace Unai Emery in north London.

Emery finds himself under pressure after a difficult start to the Premier League campaign.

He still retains the backing of the board but Arsenal sit sixth, eight points adrift of the top four during the international break.

Sheffield United, who beat the Gunners at Bramall Lane last month, are ahead of them on goal difference with Wilder doing a wonderful job.

And if Emery does find himself out of a job, Merson believes Wilder should be under consideration.

(Image: REUTERS)

"Chris Wilder has done a fantastic job at Sheffield United and deserves a crack at a really big job at some point," he told the Daily Star.

“I think they have actually been a bit unlucky in some games this season but to see them up there in fifth is phenomenal.

“I watched them play Arsenal and there was only one team who knew what they were doing. Arsenal had no idea. That’s good coaching.

“Managers like Unai Emery and Manuel Pellegrini are under pressure, and okay, you never know for sure if a manager can make such a big step up.

“But Chris Wilder has got to be in the conversation the next time a big job comes up. He deserves it.”

(Image: Sky Sports)

Arsenal return to action after the international break with a visit of struggling Southampton .

They will hope to have clawed the gap on the top four back ahead of the festive period with clashes against Norwich, Brighton and West Ham to come.

The Gunners do however have to take on Manchester City , United, Chelsea and Everton over Christmas and new year.