Arsene Wenger tells Arsenal's Granit Xhaka to 'stop tackling' because his technique is so bad

The Arsenal manager also said in his Thursday press conference that he will accept the FA's recent misconduct charge, stating 'I am big enough to say I am not right'

Wenger was speaking at a press conference on Thursday morning (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arsene Wenger has encouraged Granit Xhaka to stop tackling after the midfielder was sent off for a second time in an Arsenal shirt last weekend.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday morning, Wenger said the Swiss midfielder lacked sufficient technique.

“He's naturally not a great tackler and in his decision making," Wenger said. "It is more the way he tackles that is not convincing. He doesn't master the technique."

Wenger went on to explain that tackling technique is something players learn at a young age and that it is harder to perfect later in life.

Xhaka has been banned for four games after being sent off for a lunge on Burnley's Steven Dufour in Arsenal's 2-1 win on Sunday.

Asked what he planned to do about the midfielder's disciplinary record, Wenger added: "I would encourage him not to tackle."

Wenger told reporters he felt the tackle was clumsy but not malicious and went on to praise the player's attitude in training after he came in for criticism in recent weeks.

“I can only say about him since the start, he has a fantastic attitude. He has been absolutely marvellous," Wenger said.

“Focus, dedication and we never have a bad noise about him.”

In regards to the alleged incident involving Xhaka and a friend at Heathrow airport at the weekend, Wenger confirmed he had spoken with him about it and said the player denied that he called a British Airways worker a "f***ing white b****".

The midfielder attended a police station and was interviewed under caution over the claims of racial abuse.

On his own poor behaviour Wenger said it is unlikely he will appeal against any fine or ban he receives for appearing to push the assistant referee after being sent to the stands in Sunday's game.

“I’m in England in 20 years, I’ve seen a lot on the bench. I’m big enough to stand up and know when I do well and not well," Wenger explained.

“I’m big enough to say ‘that’s not right’ and that’s it.”