There was another remarkable post-match press conference bordering on the bizarre from an increasingly beleaguered Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger on the south coast on Sunday.

Speaking in the aftermath of his side’s 2-1 defeat by Chris Hughton’s Albion a tired-looking Wenger conceded his side did not start well and lacked confidence.

First half goals from Albion captain Lewis Dunk and Glenn Murray deservedly put the Seagulls 2-0 ahead before record signing Pierre-Emerick Aubemayang pulled one back with his first away goal for the club.

However when attempting to explain the defeat afterwards Wenger – who used to be known for the astuteness of his analogies – began a rambling and bizarre speech.

He said: “When you have just the trousers on it’s easy to take the trousers off as well.

“But when you are naked completely you have to find the shirt to try to put it on again and dress normal again.”

The long-serving Frenchman has now lost four matches on the trot and nine in 2018 which is his worst run as a manager.

He also admitted his side suffered lapses during the defeat which sees them 13 points behind fourth placed Spurs with only nine matches to go.

He added: “Overall we made some defensive mistakes. We lacked a bit of sharpness and freshness physically.

“We have played too many games recently. Nothing is permanent but we have to continue to recover.

“We have to recover and now prepare for Thursday night.”

When asked about the travelling fans who chanted for him to leave the club Wener replied: “I can understand the frustration [from the fans].

“Losing the League Cup final in the middle of the season brings a lot of negativity.”

He also blamed the fact Arsenal played Manchester City on Thursday at the Emirates in the Premier League, suffering their second 3-0 defeat of the week against Pep Guardiola’s champions-elect.

Wenger added: “When you play many games it takes you time sometimes to get into the game. We had heavy legs and we suffered many times in the second half.

“We dominated well in the second half but lacked a bit of ‘zip’ to make the difference.

“It’s difficult for me to get into any negative assessment. The team needs more support but when you struggle for confidence it’s difficult.

“It’s the first time I lose so many games on the trot.”