Wenger Accepts FA Charge For Pushing Fourth Official Anthony Taylor

Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger has said he will accept a misconduct charge by the English Football Association (FA), but requested for a personal hearing.

The Frenchman was charged by the FA on Monday after he was sent to the stands by referee Jon Moss for angrily confronting fourth official Anthony Taylor when Burnley won a stoppage-time penalty at the Emirates on Sunday.

The Gunners’ boss was then involved in a heated exchange with Taylor as he attempted to watch the remainder of the match from the tunnel before appearing to push the fourth official.

He has until 6pm tonight (Thursday 26 January) to respond to the charges.

Asked if he would accept the charge, Wenger confirmed: “Yes, I answered that in the press conference, I have little more to add. I am big enough to stand up for what I do.

“When I don’t behave like I think I should behave, I am big enough to say I am not right. I’m a passionate guy and I believe that I am completely committed in my job and want to win the football games.”

He now faces a touchline ban, with Arsenal fans hoping it would not be more than two games. The Gunners face Southampton at St Mary’s in the FA Cup fourth-round on Saturday, before hosting Watford in the Premier League and then a trip to Stamford Bridge to face league leaders, Chelsea.