Wenger accepts improper conduct charge

The Football Association says Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has accepted a charge of improper conduct and will serve a one-match ban.

Wenger was hit with an FA charge after making contact with the fourth official after his team conceded a late equalizer in the 1-1 draw at Sunderland on Saturday.

Under new fast-track disciplinary procedures, Wenger will be fined 8,000 pounds ($12,500) and serve his touchline ban on Tuesday in Arsenal's League Cup third-round match against north London rival Tottenham.

Wenger had been angry that Sunderland striker Darren Bent scored 15 seconds after the allotted four minutes of added time had expired, and appeared to sarcastically pat Martin Atkinson on the back.