Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira thinks that club manager Arsene Wenger deserves more respect from supporters.

Wenger has attracted severe criticism from the Gunners fans following the club's disappointing form since the turn of the year.

Last week, following the FA Cup clash with Hull City, a group of Arsenal away fans unfurled a banner which read 'Arsene: Thanks for the memories but it's time to say goodbye'.

New York City FC head coach Vieira, who won three Premier League titles with Arsenal, believes his fellow Frenchman is being harshly treated by the North London faithful.

"Arsenal are going through a difficult period, but I was surprised and a bit disappointed (by the banner)," Vieira told talkSPORT 2.

"Fans can be frustrated, but they forget at times what Arsene has brought to the club.

"He deserves a bit more respect. Fans can boo and show their anger, but the way they did it with that banner showed a lack of respect. This is the way it is, this is football, but it shouldn't be like that.

"Arsene will know when it is time for him to go. He knows what he is doing.

"He loves the game, he works really hard, he's a work addict. He watches every single game in every single league and has a clear vision of what he wants to achieve. People like it or don't like it.

"He has done a fantastic, unbelievable job for Arsenal Football Club and, with that message after the Hull game, the fans went a little bit too far."