Arsene Wenger odds-on to criticise officiating tonight

Gunners boss to hone in on a new VAR-get for criticism?

Poor old Arsene Wenger hasn’t had a very happy New Year – with reasons to moan (whether justified or otherwise) after seemingly every match recently.

Previously, the referee has borne the brunt of the Frenchman’s fury, and Wenger is odds-on (1/2) to criticise Martin Atkinson in the post-match press conference tonight.

VAR is being used for both legs of this semi-final, and we’re offering short odds that Wenger hits out at the technology at 2/1.

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The Arsenal boss will be watching, and seething, from the stands, due to his touchline ban, but could explore some inventive ways around the restriction.

It’s 3/1 that he and assistant Steve Bould are seen wearing headsets during the game, and 1000/1 that he tries to disguise himself on the bench with a fake moustache.

Asked about Wenger’s temperament spokesman Paddy Power said: “Wenger feels that he’s team has been treated unfairly recently, so I can’t wait to see just how balanced his VAR verdict is.

“We’re pretty sure he’s going to lose his rag, no matter what the result, and therefore are odds-on that he criticises Martin Atkinson after the game – for whom it really is a no-win fixture. A bit like Arsenal.”

Chelsea v Arsenal Specials

1/2         Arsene Wenger to criticise Martin Atkinson in post-match press conference
2/1         Wenger to criticise VAR in post-match press conference
3/1         Wenger and Steve Bould both to wear headsets during the match
100/1    Alexis Sanchez to reveal a vest saying ‘goodbye’ during the match
1000/1  Antonio Conte to be accompanied by a Jose Mourinho voodoo doll in his dugout
1000/1  Wenger to be caught trying to sneak into the Arsenal dugout wearing a fake moustache

  • Paddy Power’s full markets on the game can be found online here.

* All prices correct at time of posting.