Patrick Vieira has accused the English Football Association of displaying an anti-Arsenal bias as he leapt to the defence of Sol Campbell.
Vieira effectively claimed that Campbell was only charged with his retaliation against Eric Djemba-Djemba during the Community Shield because he is an Arsenal player.
Campbell's frustration at his recent disciplinary plight, with a four-game ban at the end of last season followed by a red card against Everton and this latest misconduct charge was such that he demanded a meeting with FA bosses earlier this week.
With Sven-Goran Eriksson in attendance, Campbell, who was angered at the lack of a hearing for his appeal against his ban last season, made his feelings clear to new FA chief executive Mark Palios.
That would appear to offer rather conclusive proof that the FA are prepared to at least listen to the views of a leading England international.
However, Vieira is clearly still unhappy at what he believes is the unfair treatment that his team-mate has endured at the governing body's hands.
The Arsenal captain told the Evening Standard: "If it had been a player at another club, I don't think this would have happened."
Arsenal have declared their intention to "vigorously" defend Campbell against a charge that could result in a three-game ban.
Vieira added: "We have to do that. It is ridiculous because this is where television is having more of an influence.
"It is no surprise to me that they have charged him, but the club and everyone will be with him. For me, this has happened because he is an Arsenal player.
"I have been where Sol is now and I know how he is feeling. As a squad of players, we're already close. Now, if it is possible, we will be even closer."
Sir Alex Ferguson has always accused Arsenal of having undue influence at the FA, especially with David Dein being the vice-chairman of both the Gunners and the governing body.
But while the simple facts are that 51 red cards have been shown to Arsenal players since Arsene Wenger took charge, there is a persistent feeling at Highbury that they are somehow being targeted.