Wenger describes criticism toward him as 'a disgrace'

Arsene Wenger provided a brutally honest assessment of the criticism directed at him in recent months.

After being forced to withstand numerous fan protests calling for his resignation and seemingly being the target of football pundits who've blamed him for Arsenal's shortcomings in recent years, Wenger didn't pull any punches in an interview with the BBC.

"I don't mind criticism because we are in a public job," he told BBC Sport's Football Focus before Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley Stadium.

"I believe there's a difference between being criticised and being treated in a way that human beings don't deserve."

He added: "The lack of respect from some has been a disgrace and I will never accept that. I will never forget it."

Saturday's match marks Wenger's seventh FA Cup final since taking charge of the north London outfit.

Yet, despite his past success in the competition - having captured the cup in all six previous appearances - and throughout his trophy-laden career, discontent has persisted.

But Wenger, whose contract expires this summer, insisted his angst stems from the battering that Arsenal's image has taken over the years following a time when the team was the toast of England.

"The behaviour of some people during the season, that is what hurts me most," he said. "It's not my person that is hurt but the impeccable image of the club around the world. That kind of behaviour does not reflect what Arsenal is.

"A strong club is a club that makes a decision. It is wrong that in modern society it is not a question of whether a decision is right but whether it is popular. That has nothing to do with competence. People with responsibility have to make the right decision."

Arsenal will look to end its season on a high Saturday and capture some silverware following a season in which the club missed out on qualifying for the Champions League for the first time under Wenger.