Wenger apologises, but likely to still face sideline ban

ARSENE Wenger has apologised after he was sent off and then shoved the fourth official during Arsenal’s dramatic 2-1 win over Burnley, but could still face a significant ban.

He has been charged with misconduct by England's governing Football Association.

Having taken the lead through Shkodran Mustafi’s first goal for the club on Sunday, Arsenal saw Granit Xhaka dismissed for a needless foul and then nearly imploded as Andre Gray struck from the spot following Francis Coquelin’s foul on Ashley Barnes.

With their English Premier League title hopes facing another major setback and the clock ticking down, Wenger was sent off for clashing with the fourth official, Anthony Taylor.

The Frenchman then pushed Taylor. Arsenal went on to snatch the points as Alexis Sanchez scored a penalty with virtually the last kick when Laurent Koscielny was caught in the head by Ben Mee’s foot.

Wenger, who was furious Coquelin’s challenge was ruled a spot-kick, had calmed down by the time he faced the media.

“I regret everything. I should have shut up. I apologise for that,” Wenger said.

“I haven’t spoken to the fourth official yet because I had to do this press conference.

“Look, it was nothing bad. I said something you hear every day in football.

“Overall, nine times out of 10 you are not sent to the stands for that, but if you are, you are. I should have shut up.”

Wenger, who saw his side move up to second place, eight points behind leaders Chelsea, was less forgiving about Xhaka’s second red card for Arsenal.

Blaming the Swiss for failing to follow instructions to stay on his feet, Wenger warned the midfielder to curb his over-zealous challenges.

“Xhaka has to control his game and not punish the team with a lack of control in his tackling,” he said.

Wenger revealed he was surprised to see Sanchez take the decisive penalty.

“He was the second penalty taker today, but as long as he scores you have to say well done. He was too cool,” he said.