Arsenal

Unperturbed Arsene Wenger stands by refereeing remarks

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 05 January 2018

Arsene Wenger admits to being "surprised and shocked" at the prospect of facing more Football Association disciplinary action after recent comments made about referees.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has insisted that he does not regret criticising Premier League officials after being asked to explain his comments by the Football Association.

The Frenchman hit out at the standard of refereeing in English football following the Gunners' 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion last week, having seen a late penalty call go against his side.

Three days later against Chelsea, another contentious spot-kick decision potentially cost Arsenal victory as Eden Hazard was adjudged to have been taken down inside the box, leading Wenger to suggest that there is a conspiracy against his side.

FA bosses have asked the 68-year-old to provide "observations" of events over the past week, and Wenger does not intend to backtrack on the comments made in the heat of the moment.

"Yes I have been asked and I maintain what I said in the press conference, 100%," he told reporters on Friday morning. "Basically, nothing has changed. I have been in England for 21 years and I try to serve this game with honesty, integrity and, when I have something to say, I say it.

"On that front, nothing will change ever. I respect everybody's opinion, but I think it was a yellow card for Hazard, 100%. I have a right to have my opinion and I respect everybody's opinion.

"I think I contributed a lot to give referees a great opportunity to be at their best, because I had a huge influence on the fact they became professional, and that is why I can be demanding as well. What I want from them is to be at the top and I am quite surprised that is shocking.

"All this fuss. You imagine, that I am 21 years in the game, and what I have seen, and heard, in the corridors from people, and you can understand that I am surprised and shocked by having been charged."

Should the FA again charge Wenger with making inappropriate comments, the long-serving Arsenal boss faces a first stadium ban during his time in English football.