I say worse things to match officials – Wenger reacts to referee saga

Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, says he has made worse comments to match officials than the words that made Mark Anthony send him off against Burnley.

Wenger, however, insisted he has learned to control his passion on the sidelines.

The French gaffer is awaiting punishment from the Football Association, FA, for shoving the fourth official after he was sent to the stands for protesting a penalty decision in the 2-1 win over Burnley.

He was also charged with using insulting language on the officials. 

The Arsenal boss has already apologised for his actions and accepted the charge.

He told reporter on Friday ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup clash against Southampton, “You know, I have said much worse than what I did here and you are not punished. And I have heard much worse from other people.”

The manager could be banned from the Saturday game if the FA hands down its punishment before the weekend, with the club hoping for a quick resolution.

He added, “I have certainly a tendency to be super passionate. You do not make 34 years without interruption on the bench if you’re not super passionate, believe me.

“I put you in this job for six months and then we will talk again — if you are still alive.”

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