Clattenburg is reportedly furious with the allegations, vehemently denying them. They are reportedly based on comments heard by Ramires, who does not even speak English fluently, and Wenger attacked the club for making public an allegation without much evidence to support it.

“I’m not a great believer in making these stories public. One of the great things in sports is tolerance, forgiveness and explanation internally and I think it should stay like that.

“It can happen that a referee doesn’t behave well. I do not say they are angels, but it is always better to sort it out in the room."