Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger sees no connection between Patrick Vieira's sale in 2005 with the reason why the Gunners have not won a trophy since. The Frenchman insists that it is not his absence that has led to the subsequent lack of success.
"Patrick was an amazing, fantastic player. But I believe we were very close to winning [silverware] since [he left]," the manager told Arsenal's official website.
"But of course, if you don't win people will say 'you did not win'. But people forget that in 2006 we played a Champions League Final with 10 men and nearly won it."
Wenger also hinted that Vieira's age would be an obstacle to resigning him.
"He [Vieira] is perfect for every [style of] football. But he will not play forever and I believe we have created a young team and to win with a young team is very difficult.
"We are at a stage where people want us to win trophies, and we know that."
