Laurent Koscielny says Arsenal must improve to take the pressure off Arsene Wenger

Laurent Koscielny has urged his Arsenal teammates to take the pressure off Arsene Wenger and says they must take responsibility for their poor form.

Six defeats in their last nine matches have seen the Gunners knocked out of the Champions League by Bayern Munich in embarrassing fashion and slip out of the top four in the Premier League.

Former Arsenal striker Lukas Podolski admits he is not sure who could replace Wenger if the Frenchman leaves his role as the club's manager Former Arsenal striker Lukas Podolski admits he is not sure who could replace Wenger if the Frenchman leaves his role as the club's manager

Wenger's future at the Emirates has been the subject of increased scrutiny as he approaches the end of his contract in the summer.

The Frenchman has yet to announce whether he will stay at the club beyond this season, having spent almost 21 years in charge, although he stated at the weekend he has reached a decision and will soon make his decision public.

France defender Koscielny says the players must step up their performances as they attempt to take the heat off their under-pressure boss.

"He's someone who's been very important in my career," he said in a national team press conference on Thursday, when asked about Wenger.

"It's him who gave me my chance at Arsenal, who fashioned me as a player and as a man.

"We're in a complicated situation but it's not only his responsibility. It's us, on the pitch, who have to do more."

Arsenal's next game following the international break is at home to Manchester City on April 2, live on Sky Sports. Catch the Super Sunday clash on Sky Sports 1 HD from 3:30pm, after Swansea v Middlesbrough.

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