Former Arsenal player Perry Groves has encouraged the club to give Arsene Wenger the send-off that he deserves after the Frenchman announced on Friday that he will be stepping down from his role as manager of the club at the end of the season.

The announcement has been met with mixed reactions.

Some fans are sad to see Wenger departing while others feel that this decision was long overdue especially considering the club's inconsistent performances during recent seasons.

"The vitriol he's received over the last six months to a year… he's been taking a lot of abuse," the former Gunner told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast.

"But all the doubters and the moaners, they can shut up now.

"People have been saying, 'he's selfish, he's only doing what's good for him', but now he's I think he has thought about what is good for Arsenal football club in the immediacy now and the future.

"Now is the time for every Arsenal fan to get behind the team.

"If we win the Europa League, great, but even if we don't, he should go out with a fanfare and with fireworks because what he's done for Arsenal football club over the last 22 years is amazing.

"I'm pleased for him, because he will get the send-off he deserves.

"I'd be amazed if it's not a full house on Sunday, and there's going to be a party atmosphere because they'll be a lot of fans who are pleased.

"Trust me, there are fans out there who think when Wenger goes it's going to change in an instant - it isn't. It's going to take a good 18 months to two years to get some players out and new players in."