Joey Barton has slammed Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger for his current leadership of the club, labelling him as a party-goer that has outstayed his welcome.

Wenger’s tenure at Arsenal looked to be over last season after his side failed to qualify for the Champions League, but the Frenchman was given a new two-year-deal at the end of the season – much to the dismay of many.

Barton has never been shy of controversy, and his latest comments on TalkSport will divide opinion. The former Manchester City, Newcastle, QPR, Marseille, Rangers and Burnley midfielder says he respects what Wenger has done in management, but admits he now looks like a man who has outstayed his welcome.

“I’m a huge fan of what Wenger has done, but sometimes you can stay at a party too long,” the 35-year-old said.

“These are worrying times if you’re an Arsenal fan.”

“But if you’re him [Wenger] you think the next good team is just around the corner and he’s building it.”

“Whatever any of us thinks he’s been a phenomenal manger in the Premier League.”

“I think last year would have been a great time to step upstairs and let someone else come in.”

“Does he need this? Every time they have a negative result he’s getting battered from pillar to post.”

“I’m a huge fan of what Wenger has done, but sometimes you can stay at a party too long.”

“Sometimes it’s nice to get off [home] at 12 o’clock, but it’s now about 4am and he’s staggering around absolutely bladdered waiting for someone to eject him.”

“And that is only going to be a matter of time, I think!”