Wenger accuses League Cup final linesman of lying

LONDON, Mar 1 (Reuters) Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has accused a League Cup final linesman of lying and called on Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard to tell the truth about a clash with Emmanuel Adebayor, British media reported today.

The comments, which could land Wenger in trouble with the FA, followed a brawl in his team's defeat on Sunday which prompted three red cards and led to charges for both clubs, Adebayor and team-mate Emmanuel Eboue.

''I don't agree with the report of the linesman because, for me, he lies,'' Wenger was quoted saying after Arsenal's 1-0 FA Cup fifth round defeat at Blackburn Rovers yesterday.

''Adebayor didn't punch anybody. So when the linesman says he punches someone, he lies.

''I would like you to ask Lampard if he was punched. And I want him to say the truth. If it is 'yes', we will accept it.

''But we have watched it on microscope and, if you can see Adebayor punching Lampard, I would like you to show me.'' Adebayor missed the Blackburn game as he has begun an automatic three-match suspension for being red-carded.

He risks further punishment after being charged with reacting aggressively and failing to leave the pitch immediately on Sunday.

''We have lost players (through suspension) for three or four games and Adebayor would definitely have played for us against Blackburn if he were availablem,'' Wenger said.

''Maybe the FA have their own way of doing justice. They have a very selective view.'' Wenger made it clear he felt Arsenal had been hard done by in terms of charges, saying: ''Is it just a coincidence that you have 20 men who have a brawl and only the Arenal players were guilty? ''It is unbelievable but maybe they have their own way to do justice.'' Togo striker Adebayor will have a personal hearing over his charge next Tuesday, while Ivorian defender Eboue will have his case heard later today.

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