Arsene Wenger deserves this punishment for dismissal against Burnley – former referee

That is the view of former Premier League chief Keith Hackett.

Arsene Wenger was sent to the stands after pushing fourth official Anthony Taylor.

He vehemently protested the award of a stoppage-time penalty to Burnley following Francis Coquelin’s tackle on Ashley Barnes which Andre Gray duly converted to level proceedings.

But with virtually the last kick of the game, Arsenal snatched a victory when Alexis Sanchez netted his spot-kick.

However, Hackett reckons the FA need to lay down the lay and dish out a strong punishment to Wenger.

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Arsene Wenger was sent to the stands after complaining about the award of a penalty

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Andre Gray thought he had secured a point for Burnley

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A one or two match touchline ban just won’t cut it on this occasion

Arsene Wenger

“For the sake of every official at every level of the game the FA must throw the book at Arsene Wenger after his disgraceful behaviour on Sunday,” Hackett wrote in his column for the Telegraph.

“They need to send out a strong, clear message – officials are sacrosanct and if you lay hands on them you will pay a heavy price.

“A one or two match touchline ban just won’t cut it on this occasion.

“A slap on the wrist would tell every Sunday morning player that it’s OK to abuse or physically assault officials.

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Alexis Sanchez grabbed all three points from the spot for Arsenal

“What I would like to see as an absolute minimum is a six-game ban – but a far more severe punishment than simply being banished from the touchline.

“Instead, I would like to see Wenger barred from any contact with his team once inside the stadium.

“Uefa regularly impose this sanction and I feel it has far more impact than a manager simply being unable to stand in the technical area.”

Arsenal, who are second in the Premier League table, turn their attentions to the FA Cup when they face Southampton in the fourth round on Saturday (5:30pm).

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