MIKEL ARTETA had a bizarre reaction to being booked during Arsenal’s clash with Sunderland.

The tactician is known for toeing the line when it comes to his conduct in the technical area while trying to guide his side to victory.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta high-fives a referee during a soccer match.Mikel Arteta tried to hug referee Stuart Attwell as he was booked for his sideline antics Credit: Premier League NINTCHDBPICT001107860625Attwell was not amused as he brandished his yellow card Credit: Premier League

But it seems he crossed the line, literally, in the first half of the contest at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

The Spaniard’s antics on the sidelines drew the attention of referee Stuart Attwell towards the end of the opening period, with the tense match poised at 0-0.

Attwell took a break in play as an opportunity to head over and formally warn the boss about leaving his technical area by brandishing a yellow card.

But as he walked over while reaching into his pocket, Arteta smiled and tried to reach his arm around the official in a hug.

Attwell was unimpressed, and Arteta aborted the embrace before being shown a card and going in the book.

Arteta’s pleasant demeanour disappeared as the card was flashed, apparently being caught by surprise at his punishment.

His smile turned into a scowl as he gave Attwell a piece of his mind.