Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has responded to claims that he is being targeted by Premier League referees after his yellow against Luton Town.
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Arteta booked after celebrating Luton winnerWill be suspended for Aston Villa clashResponds to claims of being targetedGetty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?
After celebrating Declan Rice's goal at Kenilworth Road, Arteta received his third yellow card of the season. As a result, he will automatically be banned from the touchline for Saturday's match against Aston Villa. The Arsenal manager acknowledged the booking on Friday, but he also stated that he would like to continue enjoying sentimental occasions like Tuesday's thrilling victory. It seems like Arteta also intended to ensure that other managers who were judged to be overly celebratory received the same treatment.
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On being asked if celebrating is not allowed: "We are but I think we have a boundary. Maybe we have to extend. We just need a very strong rope, or we don’t move. But it means WE don’t move – all of us. Other managers do it too? This is why I say WE. Unfair? The decision is made. Unfortunately I don’t think we are going to change it."
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After making remarks during Arsenal's defeat at Newcastle last month, Arteta has already landed himself in deep water with the FA. He is currently awaiting word on his destiny. The Spaniard, who had his hearing on Thursday, criticised the refereeing standards used for Anthony Gordon's winner. Arteta's post-match remarks might result in a fine or touchline suspension.
WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?
Arteta quipped that he hoped it may even help his team while he was in the directors' box at Villa Park on Saturday, December 9. Villa is now four points behind Arsenal, who lead the Premier League by two points at the moment.