Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia believes manager Arsene
Wenger is "suffering" from the club's lack of
silverware.
The Gunners have failed to lift a trophy since they defeated
Manchester United on penalties in the 2005 FA Cup final.
Wenger's side have since come close to glory but ultimately
fallen at the final hurdle in both Champions League and League Cup
showpieces.
Wenger remains confident ahead of the new season that glory is
on the horizon, and Almunia is hopeful his boss is soon rewarded
for his efforts.
"When time passes and you don't win anything it's not easy for
the boss," said Almunia.
"You can see the face of the boss every day. It is calm and
relaxed but I think, inside, he is suffering because he can't give
the people what they want. And the patience of people can run
out.
"The boss is very experienced, and puts a lot of effort into
doing things differently - in not spending money and giving
opportunities to young people.
"I hope, and I think, he will be rewarded one day. It's a long
period without anything being won.
"Arsenal is a big, big club and people are not happy with
semi-finals. People want celebrations and street parties. As
players we need that too, to have us touching medals, to have
something in our hands we can always remember.
"Semi-finals will not be very well remembered in a few years.
People need something more."
Spain-born Almunia also confirmed he is continuing to consider
applying for a British passport as he weighs up the possibility of
playing for England.
"I've been informed what I need to do (to gain British
citizenship)," he told the Guardian.
"If I take the decision I don't think it's difficult to get
citizenship. It could be very quick - and soon.
"I have to see what people think because it's not an easy
decision. I'm 32 so I don't want any problems with anyone.
"This is not a silly thing. You are playing with the hearts of
people. It [an England cap] is not something you can buy in a shop.
I don't want to disturb anybody."