Arsenal mocked by Gary Lineker for poaching 'wrong scout' from Leicester

Ben Wrigglesworth, who recently joined Arsenal, was credited with identifying Riyad Mahrez - however Lineker says that is incorrect

Riyad Mahrez (GETTY IMAGES)

Gary Lineker has mocked Arsenal's capture of a former Leicester scout who was widely credited with identifying Riyad Mahrez - by suggesting the Gunners signed up the wrong man.

It was confirmed earlier this week that Arsenal had secured the services of Ben Wrigglesworth, who had been with Leicester for three-and-a-half years.

It was reported that during that time, Wrigglesworth identified Mahrez, who with 14 goals this term has been among the stand-out players in Leicester's remarkable season.

However, Lineker says the credit for signing the Algeria international for what now appears an incredible bargain price of £400,000 should go to head of recruitment Steve Walsh.

“I love how Arsenal nicked the wrong scout,” said Lineker. “Steve Walsh is the guy who found these players and bought them in.

“I know he found Mahrez. He was sent to watch someone else and came back with Mahrez. He’s done a brilliant job and that’s been the large key to Leicester’s success. As in all clubs, it’s about the people you bring in and they’ve done it on a relatively small budget compared with the giants.”

Wrigglesworth left his role as head of technical scouting at Leicester to become first team video scout at Arsenal.

Explaining the decision on Twitter, Wrigglesworth wrote: "After three-and-a-half unbelievable seasons, working with amazing people, I am now starting a new chapter.

"It was a very difficult decision, leaving Leicester, but I had to take an opportunity that doesn't come round often.

"I only wish the best for Leicester in the future and will always be eternally grateful to them for getting me to where I am."

The move comes just days before Arsenal and Leicester meet in the Premier League in a match that could have a significant bearing on the destination of the title.

After the latest round of Premier League fixtures, in which both Leicester and Arsenal won, the Foxes moved five points clear at the top of the table. Arsenal are third.