Wenger fined over Bennett spat
Wenger has faced several disciplinary hearings this season
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Tuesday, 17, Apr 2007 05:26
Arsene Wenger has been fined £2,500 and warned about his future conduct by the Football Association.
The Arsenal manager attended a disciplinary commission hearing at the FA's headquarters in Soho Square today for an incident that occurred against Portsmouth last December.
Wenger was sent to the stands by referee Steve Bennett for the second half after the Gunners boss complained to the fourth official and then argued with Bennett in the tunnel at the interval.
He was unhappy with a free-kick awarded to Portsmouth, which led to their opening goal at the Emirates Stadium. The match eventually finished 2-2 but Wenger was left fuming after it emerged he could face disciplinary action over the incident.
"I arrived ten years ago and believe me I have seen ten times worse than what happened on Saturday," he said at the time, describing the charge as "scandalous".
"I was amazed I was banned from the touchline in the second half, because considering what I have seen in the corridors the last ten years, it is difficult to explain."
That charge came just days after Wenger had received a £10,000 fine and was warned as to his future conduct for the touchline bust-up with Alan Pardew, during his time as West Ham manager, after the Gunners lost 1-0 at Upton Park earlier this season.
Despite vowing to defend himself at today's hearing, Wenger apparently admitted the charge. This will have helped to reduce the action taken against him.