Lehmann admits FA charge

Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann today admitted a Football Association misconduct charge arising out of a clash with Kevin Phillips as he received a warning from boss Arsene Wenger to keep his cool.

Lehmann faces a possible one-match ban or a fine after pleading guilty to the charge of improper conduct following the game against Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium on December 29.

He was warned as to his future conduct by the FA earlier this season following his part in the Old Trafford melee when an initial charge of improper conduct was downgraded.

Phillips has, meanwhile, also admitted a charge of improper conduct but, while Lehmann will not seek a personal hearing, he has asked for the chance to put his side of the story.

The FA’s website, www.theFA.com, revealed: “The Southampton striker has admitted the charge improper conduct and has requested a personal hearing to detail the mitigating circumstances. The date of the hearing will be confirmed in due course.”

Lehmann threw the ball at Phillips, who had earlier stepped on the German international’s foot, after the end of the game, which ended in a 1-0 victory for the Gunners.

Lehmann later apologised to referee Steve Dunn but he still included the incident in his match report and that led to the FA charge.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger today revealed that his goalkeeper was still getting accustomed to the physical nature of the Premiership after his summer move from Borussia Dortmund.

“It is different in this country and I like it the way it is,” the Arsenal boss told the Evening Standard.

“I think, overall, Jens likes it here too. It’s always a shock to the system when a player comes over from Europe but he’s bright and knows when he’s done wrong.

“After a game when he’s over-reacted, he will say sorry. He knows he must learn to keep his cool and I’ve told him that, but he is determined and always wants to win the game.

“Since he has joined the club he’s made a big impact and I’ve been very pleased with him. You can see he is a winner and you want that in your team.”