Arsene Wenger: Eden Hazard should've been booked for diving against Arsenal

The FA have requested observations from the Arsenal manager over a few of his statements from before and after the game

Eden Hazard won and scored a decisive penalty in Wednesday's game (Getty)

Arsene Wenger has stood by his comments on refereeing in the aftermath of Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Chelsea, and even doubled down by saying he felt Eden Hazard should have been booked for diving rather than a penalty given.

The FA have requested observations from the Arsenal manager over a few of his statements from before and after the game, as he complained about the decisions that led to penalties being awarded, described Chelsea’s as “farcical” and then added “but we knew that as well.”

Wenger however doubled down on his statements, and insisted Hazard should have been booked.

“First of all, yes I’ve been asked,” he said on Friday. “I maintain what I said in the press conference, 100 per cent. I have nothing to change in that. Nothing has changed. I’ve been in England for 21 years and I’ve tried to serve this game with honesty, integrity and when I have something to say, I say it. On that front, nothing will change. Never.

“I respect everybody’s opinion but I think it was a yellow card for Hazard, 100 per cent. I have a right to have my opinion, and I respect everybody’s opinion.”

Asked to clarify whether he still felt the decision was farcical. Wenger repeated “100%”.

It was put to the Arsenal boss that many felt Jack Wilshere had also dived in the match just before he scored, but he stressed that didn’t diminish his complaints.

“Yes, maybe he did but why should that change my opinion on the penalty? It’s got nothing to do with it. Every situation is different and has to be assessed by the referee. After that, you have your opinion and I have mine. I’ve been in the game long enough to know that everybody can have a different opinion.”