Mauricio Pochettino swerves FA punishment for berating officials after pulsating 4-4 draw with Man City.

The Argentine was infuriated by the timing of referee Anthony Taylor’s full-time whistle as he felt his side had the opportunity to launch one final attack, with the scores locked at 4-4 following Cole Palmer’s stoppage-time equaliser from the spot. Pochettino was booked for berating fourth official Craig Pawson and then entered the pitch to confront Taylor, before being restrained by members of his coaching staff.

Mauricio Pochettino was so incensed that he also snubbed Pep Guardiola’s handshake. The Chelsea boss has subsequently apologised, and because he was booked during the incident he has swerved further punishment from the Football Association.

Speaking in his press conference after the game, Pochettino said: “I need to apologise to Anthony [Taylor], and the referees and the fourth official, because in this moment I feel that maybe Raheem can go through and go to score the fifth and it is moment I turn when finished the game to Anthony and say ‘what the…’

“I said ‘why stop in this moment?’ and then when I turn and say, ‘I deserve to be booked’. Yes, I crossed the limit and I want to apologise. It’s not a good image for me and for football for this type of behaviour.”

The booking represents Pochettino’s second of the season after he saw yellow at Burnley. If he collects one more he will face a touchline ban. Chelsea return to Premier League action after the international break when they travel to Newcastle on Saturday, November 25.