Tuesday 9 June 2015 13:03, UK
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere claims the criticism he has received for his infamous FA Cup celebrations is 'harsh'.
The Football Association charged Wilshere with misconduct following his anti-Tottenham chants during the FA Cup victory parade on the streets of north London.
Wilshere took to the microphone during the victory parade to goad rivals Tottenham with foul-mouthed chants - actions which could now lead to a substantial fine from the FA.
The England midfielder was warned about his behaviour after making similar comments 12 months earlier and is now facing a misconduct charge, for which he has until 6pm on Wednesday to answer.
"I found out when I got here (on England duty)," Wilshere said. "One of the press officers told me.
"It was a surprise. I didn't know I'd been charged so I was like 'what?'
"I don't think I'm in a position to comment about it at the moment. It's being dealt with by the FA and my club. What will be, will be."
Wilshere admitted to being a little disappointed with the charge, which has inevitably led to "a bit of banter" from his England team-mates.
He joked Tottenham players are not talking to him but has pledged never to change his connection with Arsenal fans.
"Yeah, I am quite proud of that," Wilshere said. "I've always had that bond with the Arsenal fans since I was young because I came through the club.
"I grew up at Arsenal and I love the fans but, believe it or not, I've actually got family who are Tottenham fans so it's nothing personal against them, it was just a bit of fun."
No matter what job you do, if at the end of the year you get a promotion and a bonus, you're going to go out and celebrate. I think that side of things was a bit harsh.
The incident has, though, led to a dressing down from England manager Roy Hodgson and called his off-field antics into question yet again.
Asked if he considered this a lesson learnt, Wilshere said: "Yes, that's one way of looking at it, but at the same time people have been giving me a lot of stick for having some fun and enjoying myself at the end of a successful season.
"We've worked hard all year as a group of players and we've won a trophy. That's the best feeling in the world.
"No matter what job you do, if at the end of the year you get a promotion and a bonus, you're going to go out and celebrate. I think that side of things was a bit harsh."
