Gunners lack clinical finisher: Vieira

A lack of finishing in front of goal is hurting Arsenal’s title chances, Manchester City midfielder Patrick Vieira claims.

The Frenchman, who enjoyed a trophy-laden spell that spanned nine years, praised Arsene Wenger’s side but is afraid their lack of conviction and physical presence across the park could cost them dearly.

“Arsenal players are in the ‘truth’, but they need something, they need to add some physical strength,” he told French sports daily l’equipe.

“In my period, there were (Nigel) Winterburn, (Tony) Adams, (Ray) Parlour, who had less qualities on the technical side but were strong physically and they put their head where everybody won’t make with their feet!”

The 1998 World Cup winner admitted he still follows Arsenal’s fortunes, but rued their lack of conviction, which he fears could lead to the disenchantment among their stars.

“I follow Arsenal as a fan. I am frustrated because the team plays very well, the best game in England, I love to see the team play, but there is nothing in the end. ”

“Arsenal has not got the killer mentality of Manchester [United]. They often need three or four goals to win a game.”

“The problem is that the biggest players, [Cesc] Fabregas and [Robin] Van Persie, will start to think that they cannot win anything with Arsenal.”

Vieira also stated that Manchester City will remain in the shadow of their illustrious city rivals, Manchester United until they taste league success.

“City are currently living in the shadow of United. (And) this isn’t likely to change until we win the title.”

“Expectations are really high, but people shouldn’t forget that we were fighting against relegation only a few years back.”

Vieira, who turns 35 in June, also said he was still undecided about whether he should retire at the season’s end.