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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Simon Collings

Mikel Arteta: Arsenal manager escapes FA punishment following comments after Newcastle defeat

Mikel Arteta has escaped punishment for his comments after Arsenal’s defeat at Newcastle last month.

The Arsenal manager launched a scathing attack on the standard of officiating in the Premier League following his side’s 1-0 loss at St. James’ Park on November 4.

Arteta was livid after Anthony Gordon’s winning goal for Newcastle survived three separate VAR checks.

The Spaniard said it was an “absolute disgrace” and he was “sick to be part of this” as he tore into officials.

Arteta was furious Newcastle's goal was allowed to stand (Getty Images)

“We have to talk about the result because you have to talk about how they help these goals stand up, and it's incredible,” said Arteta. “I feel embarrassed. I feel sick to be part of this.

“But I have to be the one now coming here to try to defend the club and please ask for help because it's an absolute disgrace that this goal is allowed, it's an absolute disgrace.”

Arteta was duly charged by the FA for breach Rule E3.1, but he has now been cleared by an independent Regulatory Commission.

A statement from the FA read: “An independent Regulatory Commission has found the charge against Mikel Arteta for an alleged breach of FA Rule E3.1 to be not proven.

“The manager was charged following various comments in media interviews after Arsenal’s Premier League game against Newcastle United on Saturday 4 November.

“It was alleged that his comments constituted misconduct in that they were insulting towards match officials and/or detrimental to the game and/or brought the game into disrepute.

“The Regulatory Commission came to its decision following a hearing and the full written reasons for this can be found attached.”

There had been fears Arteta could be facing a touchline ban, but he will now be in the dugout for Arsenal’s game at home to Brighton on Sunday.

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