Gunnersaurus returns for Arsenal - but it's not same man who wore costume for 27 years

Arsenal mascot Gunnersaurus is back - but not as we know him.

Jerry Quy performed the role for nearly three decades but was unable to agree terms over a new deal.

It meant the end of one of football's most recognisable mascots as Arsenal made the decision to cut costs, which saw over 50 employees lose their jobs.

But Gunnersaurus will now return, although it will be filled on a rotation basis by various people instead of just one individual, reports the Sun.

“Back at Emirates Stadium today," tweeted Gunnersaurus with a snap of himself at the north London venue earlier this week as he signalled his return.

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Back at Emirates Stadium today ???? pic.twitter.com/NF7FcNWYhI — Gunnersaurus (@Gunnersaurus) November 10, 2020

The decision to let Quy go was meant with plenty of displeasure as life-long fan Piers Morgan voiced his disappointment.

German Mesut Ozil also offered to subsidise his salary in an effort to bring him back into the fold.

And now Quy’s son David has taken to social media to confirm his father would no longer be in the role and voice his anger at how the situation played out.

He said on Twitter : “My Dad loyally served Arsenal in the much-loved role of Gunnersaurus, his alter ego, for 27 years (voluntarily for the first 14!), helping to create a character mascot that is hugely recognised across the world of football and beyond.

“In response to the pandemic, Arsenal FC decided they would include the role of Gunnersaurus as part of their cost-cutting redundancy exercise, owing to the lack of matchdays and community opportunities.

“Understandably so, as it wasn’t a full-time role any more, but Gunner wasn’t about to become extinct! Just simply lose his familiar heart and soul.

“Unfortunately, Arsenal were unable to find a suitable way to include my Dad in their ‘new normal’ part-time plans, or even offer him the chance to hand over his legacy. Perhaps they see him as an extinct dinosaur after all!

“To ‘act with class’ is an Arsenal value that I remember well from my time working at the club, and my Dad certainly honoured that. However, I don’t feel this was reciprocated in how his journey ended.

“All this to say, this unique and privileged job has given the family and fans alike many great memories, and all good things do eventually come to an end.”