Mikel Arteta has ‘damaged Arsenal’ as ‘unacceptable’ footage emerges – Hackett
Keith Hackett has claimed Mikel Arteta has “damaged Arsenal” and football as a whole after he was caught on camera mocking the referee against Aston Villa on Saturday (18 February).
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee insisted the FA could review and punish the 40-year-old if the officials didn’t see the incident in real time.
As per Sky Sports Premier League on Twitter (19 February), Arteta was caught on camera mocking match referee Simon Hooper after he prevented Arsenal from taking a quick free-kick.
The Spaniard, who has caused controversy this season with his technical area outbursts, vociferously protested a number of decisions during the match – which finished 4-2 in the Gunners’ favour.
Speaking last month to club media (25 January), Arteta admitted he can “do better” with his touchline conduct.
Arsenal lead second-place Man City by two points in the Premier League and they have a game in hand on their title rivals.
Hackett told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “This guy is a serial offender.
“I can excuse passion, but this guy has got to realise he is no longer a player.
“He’s a manager, and he has some responsibilities. I think these actions damage both Arsenal Football Club and the game as a whole.
“It is this type of action which undermines referees and makes it hard for them at the grassroots level.
“It’s unacceptable and childish. If the referee and fourth official didn’t see this, then there is the opportunity for a review, and that’s what I would like to see.
“I thought the referee, Simon Hooper, had one of his best games.”
In other news, Football Insider updates with Arsenal well placed to agree early deal for £35,000-a-week star.