Published: 23 February, 2012
by STEVE BARNETT

ARSENE Wenger’s position as manager, Robin van Persie’s current contract situation and this summer’s spending spree are all expected to be among the talking points raised today (Thursday) at Arsenal’s monthly board meeting.

American billionaire Stan Kroenke has flown into London to face frustrated shareholders as the Gunners close in on a seventh year without winning a trophy.

Despite the club being on the brink of a Champions League exit following their 4-0 thumping against AC Milan in Italy last Wednesday, and crashing out of the FA Cup away to Sunderland on Saturday, Kroenke, who owns a majority stake in Arsenal, is expected to show his full support for under-fire boss Wenger.

The club will reportedly reveal profits of around £55million in their half-yearly accounts, money that Wenger could spend on team strengthening this summer.

The Arsenal Supporters’ Trust, however, are demanding greater engagement from Kroenke amid concerns that spending has been curbed against the potential failure of the team qualifying to play in next season’s Champions League.

The issue of van Persie’s contract, which expires in 18 months’ time, will also be discussed in depth amid fears that the Gunners’ captain could be tempted away from the Emirates by a more ambitious club.

It is believed van Persie would prefer to open discussions about his contract after this summer’s European Championships, where he will play for Holland, when he will know whether Arsenal have finished in a Champions League qualification place or not.