‘Serial offender’ Mikel Arteta accused of ‘damaging Arsenal and the game’ with latest touchline antics
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has been accused of ‘damaging Arsenal’ and football in general following his latest touchline antics against Aston Villa last weekend.
The Gunners boss was caught on camera mocking match referee Simon Hooper after he prevented Arsenal from taking a quick free-kick in the Gunners 4-2 victory over their former boss Unai Emery.
It’s not the first time that Arteta has caused controversy in his technical area, with regular outbursts occurring throughout the season.
And now former referee Keith Hackett has claimed that the Emirates chief has damaged the club with his antics.
Speaking to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee insists the FA could review and punish the 40-year-old, if the officials didn’t see the incident in real-time.
Arteta also protested a number of decisions during the match in an aggressive manner.
Speaking only last month, Arteta admitted that he has to ‘do better’ with his touchline conduct.
Hackett wants Arteta punished retrospectively
But Hackett believes the authorities need to crack down on Arteta‘s poor behaviour during matches.
He told Football Insider: “This guy is a serial offender.
“I can excuse passion, but this guy has got to realise he is no longer a player.
“He’s a manager, and he has some responsibilities. I think these actions damage both Arsenal Football Club and the game as a whole.
“It is this type of action which undermines referees and makes it hard for them at the grassroots level.
“It’s unacceptable and childish. If the referee and fourth official didn’t see this, then there is the opportunity for a review, and that’s what I would like to see.
“I thought the referee, Simon Hooper, had one of his best games.”
The Gunners currently have a two-point lead at the top of the Premier League table and face a trip to Leicester on Saturday.
