Graham Turner praises Arsene Wenger ahead of Carling Cup clash with Arsenal

Shrewsbury Town boss Graham Turner today revealed his huge respect for Arsene Wenger's "significant" impact on English football as the countdown to Tuesday's big Carling Cup trip to Arsenal began in earnest.

Wenger has now spent 15 years in English football, during which time the Gunners have reached three Premier League trophies, four FA Cups and reached the Champions League final.

And Turner revealed the Frenchman's approach has had a major impact on how his colleagues approach management.

"He introduced a lot of good things into the English game when he first went into Arsenal," said Turner.

"A lot of young managers have got bits and pieces to thank him for.

"He went into some depth with diet, preparation and training schedule and I think there is quite a few English managers will have taken note of what he has done there.

"He brought a few ideas in from the continent that have been adapted and he totally changed the culture at Arsenal both on and off the pitch.

"I think he has the greatest of respect of all managers in this country."

Wenger is currently in the toughest period of his Arsenal reign, the departures of Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri coming at a time when Arsenal have made a stumbling start to the season.

And Turner revealed he has sympathy for Wenger's recent plights.

"He has played a significant part in English football and Premier League football over a long period," said Turner.

"He has done extremely well and apart from us going there, you wish him well because nobody likes to see a manager of his calibre losing 8-2 at Old Trafford.

"I sat there watching his expressions and mannerisms in the dug out and I could sympathise with him.

"It doesn't matter if you have had a long or short time at a club, the stick and criticism hurts anybody."

By JAMES GARRISON