Petr Cech defended the rights of Arsenal supporters to vent their frustrations at recent displays after another thrashing at the hands of Manchester City.

After losing the Carabao Cup final 3-0, the Gunners could not find any level of retribution as they were beaten by the same scoreline in the Premier League on Thursday.

Bernardo Silva, David Silva and Leroy Sane all scored wonderful first-half goals for City to leave Arsenal 10 points off the top four and a massive 30 points adrift of the champions-elect.

With seven defeats from 13 games across all competitions in 2018, Arsene Wenger’s position has again started to be questioned by supporters and pundits alike.

The Emirates Stadium was almost half-empty for the game and, although the freezing conditions and widespread snow can be pinpointed as one of the reasons behind a poor attendance, the apparent apathy of supporters is also a factor.

A minority chanted ‘you’re not fit to wear the shirt’ as the players traipsed off at half-time, with jeers spreading at full time.

“I understand the frustration of the fans,” said goalkeeper Cech.

“You come and you want your team to do well, and when you are 3-0 down at half-time then you are not happy.

“Everybody has an opportunity to make their feelings known. Football fans – this is their way of showing this. Second half we improved, but the damage was done in the first half.

“With conditions like that unfortunately so many people could not turn up to the stadium. It is unfortunate people miss out on a big game. But that is something we cannot control.”

Former Gunners defender Martin Keown offered the most damning verdict of Wenger’s current situation, telling BBC Radio 5 Live: “People have been in the comfort zone too long in the this team.

“I was calling for more desire and intensity from Arsenal. The problems have been there all season and you can’t suddenly turn it on. They’ve looked good going forward but they always look like they could concede.

“They used to say it was like watching Brazil. I’m not sure what it’s like watching now. It’s been very tepid and sad.

“I don’t think he’ll walk, but this will test his resolve. Big questions are being asked now – if these players are giving their all for Arsene Wenger.”