Former Arsenal winger Jermaine Pennant believes that some players within the Arsenal squad are trying to get the manager sacked.

Pennant has been surprised at the half hearted displays from some of the players who go onto the pitch for the Gunners.

And he believes that the players must accept blame for the malaise that has currently infected the North London club.

"The players have got to look at themselves because there is only so much that the manager can do. He can give instructions and pick the team, but he can't pass the ball for you," Pennant told 888Sport.

"Some of the goals they are conceding is not due to the manager. That comes down to application. That comes down to knowing how to defend properly. It's the fundamentals like seeing the correct pass and knowing where to be and where not to be. That's down to the players.

"They need to look at themselves and be more energetic. Defend like every game is a cup final. Instead they're half-hearted like they're trying to get Emery sacked."