Paul Merson thinks Chris Hughton could’ve been Arsenal manager if he never played for Tottenham Hotspur

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Chris Hughton used to play for Tottenham Hotspur, and has not been tipped as a potential Arsene Wenger replacement at Arsenal.

Paul Merson has told The Debate, which was broadcast on Sky Sports on 15th May, that Chris Hughton would be a candidate to takeover at Arsenal if he hadn’t played for Tottenham Hotspur.

Hughton has performed a remarkable job at Brighton over the past few seasons.

The 59-year-old boss has guided Brighton to the Premier League and kept them in the top flight.

And Merson believes that Hughton could have been a candidate to takeover from Arsene Wenger at the Emirates Stadium if he hadn’t played for Spurs.

“I think Chris Hughton if he hadn’t played for Tottenham would surely get a mention for the Arsenal job,” Merson said.

“He was a great player, a great coach and he improves players which is the most important thing.”

Arsenal are still looking for a new manager to takeover from Wenger, with Mikel Arteta and Massimo Allegri considered the leading candidates.

Hughton played for Spurs between 1977 and 1990 as a player, making 297 appearances for the Lilywhites.

Hughton has also had experience of managing Tottenham on an interim basis, during his younger years.

Arsenal have finished behind Spurs in the past two seasons, and will be hoping that whoever they appoint can turn the balance of power in north London back in their favour.