Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill has described Arsene Wenger as "one of the greatest managers of the game".
Wenger's Arsenal side lost 2-0 to the Black Cats in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Saturday.
The result has increased the speculation that the Frenchman's job with the Gunners is on the line.
"My view is that when he eventually decides to retire he will be considered by everyone, including me, as one of the great managers of the game," said O'Neill.
"We might not always see eye to eye about events but I personally think he has been fantastic for the English game, so of course he will be disappointed at having lost the game but I don't think the criticism that we all receive passes round, but I don't think it is particularly merited. That is my view. He has been one of the great managers and will be considered so."
Sunderland have been named as ball number seven in tomorrow's quarter-final draw.
