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ESPN staff 7y

Anthony Taylor to take charge of 2017 FA Cup final between Arsenal, Chelsea

Anthony Taylor has been appointed to referee this season's FA Cup final between Arsenal and Chelsea -- the same official that Gunners manager Arsene Wenger pushed and labelled "dishonest" in January.

The Football Association announced on Wednesday that Taylor is to take charge of the showpiece event on May 27 alongside assistant referees Gary Beswick and Marc Perry, fourth official Robert Madley and reserve assistant referee Adam Nunn.

Wenger was given a four-match touchline ban and £25,000 fine following his conduct towards Taylor, who was the fourth official for Arsenal's 2-1 win over Burnley on Jan. 22.

The Arsenal boss had been protesting an injury-time penalty that was awarded to Burnley before his team snatched victory in the 98th minute through Alexis Sanchez.

Referee Jon Moss' report of the game said: "He [Taylor] informed me that despite being warned to consider his conduct, Mr Wenger stated to Mr Taylor 'You are dishonest to your federation!' Mr Taylor told me that he told Mr Wenger that this was not acceptable to which Mr Wenger replied 'F--- off.'"

The report added that Wenger pushed Taylor twice after being dismissed from his technical area, with the official having to ask security to escort the manager to the dressing room.

Taylor, who was fourth official at the 2013 FA Cup Final, told the FA's official website that he was thrilled to learn of the news of his appointment for the May 27 clash.

"The first feeling when I got the call... I was delighted, excited and very, very honoured and humbled to be appointed to the game," said Taylor, who has taken charge of the FA Community Shield and League Cup final in the past.

"It's been a long-standing dream of mine in the 20-odd years that I've been a referee to one day officiate the FA Cup final, it's the pinnacle of your domestic career.

"Refereeing a match at Wembley is a fantastic experience, any game that you do there, but the cup final is iconic and especially with it being a London derby as well, that adds an extra dimension to the occasion."

The FA has announced that Arsenal and Chelsea will both receive around 28,000 tickets for this season's FA Cup final.

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