MIKEL ARTETA was slammed for his furious touchline rant at the end of Arsenal’s draw with Newcastle.
And criticising fans called on the Gunners boss to be slapped with a touchline ban following the flamboyant tantrum.
Arteta’s frustrations grew as his side failed to break through a resolute Toon defence in the 0-0 stalemate at the Emirates.
He was begging for a penalty in the 95th minute when Granit Xhaka’s cross brushed against the arm of Jacob Murphy from point-blank range.
Referee Andy Madley waved away the players’ protests but Arteta let rip at fourth official Stuart Atwell on the sidelines.
The Spaniard gesticulated wildly towards the ref appealing for handball, waving his arms angrily as he jumped up and down before racing over to make Atwell absolutely aware of his views on the decision.
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And plenty of viewers at home were appalled by Arteta’s behaviour and wanted to see him punished by the authorities.
One said: “This guy needs a touchline ban, he has been out [of] line all year.”
Another wrote: “Out of his technical area all game again. Premier League needs to get a grip of him.”
A third added: “I wonder if Arteta will get a touchline ban. His antics week in week out are a disgrace.”
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One supporter replied: “I thought Arteta was a decent guy, but after watching the way he showed himself up against Newcastle, I hope they don’t win the league, embarrassing, FA should ban him from the touchline.”
And Richard Keys commented: “Seriously – when is someone going to get control of Mikel Arteta? He’s an embarrassment. Totally out of control during games.”
Arteta was still raging when he spoke to the media after the goalless draw, which leaves Arsenal eight points clear at the top of the Premier League.
He believes his side, though, were denied two “scandalous” penalties – the Murphy handball and another earlier on when Dan Burn tussled with Gabriel Magalhaes.
Arteta, who also clashed with opposition boss Eddie Howe on a high-tempered night in North London, said: “There were two penalties. It’s very simple. I’m talking about what I’ve seen.
“It was two scandalous penalties.”
Managers and players are allowed to comment on and criticise referees but cannot suggest bias or question a referee’s integrity.
FA Rule E3.1 states: “A participant shall at all times act in the best interests of the game and not act in any manner which is improper or brings the game into disrepute or use anyone, or a combination of violent conduct, serious foul play, threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting words or behaviour.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
