The Gunners - who host leaders Manchester United on Sunday - are facing up to a sixth season without silverware. Under current plans, which have yet to be formally confirmed, an additional £4.5million is set to be raised through increased admission costs for 7,000 executive 'Club Level' tickets, a scheme recently slammed by boxing promoter Frank Warren and which the AST believe is an unnecessary burden to place on fans in such a difficult climate. The supporters' group believe additional revenue streams can be found at the Emirates Stadium without passing costs onto fans. The AST first raised the issue in February, and Thursday's letter read: "We wholly oppose this move and believe that the club should give serious consideration to cancelling it in favour of a thorough review of ticketing prices for the following season. "Our objection has nothing to do with recent results and everything to do with our concern that loyal Arsenal fans are being priced out of attending matches. "The wider economic climate means that many fans are suffering. They can no longer afford the high cost of tickets and we have been approached by many concerned members who tell us that accepting a price rise is no longer a matter of choice, but will force their exclusion as their finances just can't stretch to meet it. "A simple application of supply and demand economics might indicate a rise can be 'toughed out' and it may be that the season ticket waiting list is robust, but we urge you not to take the loyalty of Arsenal's fans for granted and to act as a custodian - for the long-term." The AST believe Arsenal should explore a lucrative overseas tour, which manager Arsene Wenger has conceded is likely to take place this summer as Arsenal look to keep up with their rivals, and also plough in more cash from the club's on-going property developments. They also advocate "more efficient management of the current footballing squad, particularly in squad size and wage management." The letter continued: "Effective action in all of these areas should secure enough additional revenue to more than offset postponing or cancelling the proposed increase and allow for significant investment in the playing squad which the AST has called for several times in the last 18 months. "In conclusion, we ask that you postpone the increase for at least a year and commit to a full review of all ticket prices during that time." Arsenal are currently the subject of a takeover offer from American tycoon Stan Kroenke. The AST has urged its members not to sell, but instead continue to work with Kroenke to take the club forward. "While we are hopeful that the KSE (Kroenke Sports Enterprises) commitment to 'self-sustainability' and respecting Arsenal's traditions and how it operates means they will not, I am sure you appreciate the perception that there will be if the price increase is implemented without the guarantee that it is not for the benefit of shareholders," the AST said.
