Wenger charged by FA for ‘making physical contact’

Matt Stead

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been charged by the Football Association for pushing fourth official Anthony Taylor.

Wenger was sent off at the end of Arsenal’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Burnley on Sunday, the Frenchman having complained about the awarding of a late penalty against his side.

He then pushed Taylor in the tunnel at the Emirates Stadium, and is alleged to have called referee Jon Moss a “cheat”.

The FA said Wenger is alleged to have used abusive or insulting behaviour words the fourth official and made physical contact with him.

Arsenal would go on to win the game 2-1 despite Wenger’s theatrics as Alexis Sanchez converted an even-later penalty after Andre Gray’s spot-kick had cancelled out Shkodran Mustafi’s opener.

Wenger apologised for his behaviour after the game but the FA confirmed on Tuesday afternoon that he has since been charged.

“Arsene Wenger has been charged for misconduct following Arsenal’s game against Burnley on Sunday (22 January 2017),” a statement on the FA website read.

“It is alleged that in or around the 92nd minute, he used abusive and/or insulting words towards the fourth official.

“It is further alleged that following his dismissal from the technical area, his behaviour in remaining in the tunnel area and making physical contact with the fourth official amounted to improper conduct.

“He has until 6pm on 26 January 2017 to respond to the charge.”