Wenger names his two Manager of the Season candidates

Matt Stead

Arsene Wenger has named the two bosses he expects to be in contention to be named the Premier League’s Manager of the Season.

With just five games remaining in the Premier League season, many managers have staked their case for individual recognition.

Pep Guardiola is one of the frontrunners after engineering Manchester City’s march to the title.

Jurgen Klopp could be considered if he delivers a Champions League title to Liverpool, while Sean Dyche has taken Burnley from relegation candidates to the brink of the Europa League.

Rafael Benitez and Chris Hughton have guided promoted Newcastle and Brighton clear of the bottom, while David Wagner’s work at Huddersfield, Carlos Carvalhal’s at Swansea and Roy Hodgson’s at Crystal Palace should not go unnoticed if all escape the drop.

But Wenger believes Guardiola and Dyche’s achievements outstrip those of their peers.

“He’s a contender, yes,” replied Wenger when asked about Dyche’s credentials.

Asked who he would choose, Wenger said: “I don’t know, Guardiola certainly, and Sean Dyche have been above everyone else.”