Roberto De Zerbi handed one-match ban for improper conduct

Brighton & Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi has been fined and handed a one-match touchline ban for his behaviour in the aftermath of his side’s 1-0 defeat to Fulham, according to Sky Sports.

De Zerbi was shown a red card by referee Darren England for improper conduct during the match. 

He followed the officials down the tunnel after the game and allegedly used improper language when confronting them, which he later admitted. 

Brighton have had their fair share of contentious decisions against them this season, and it looked like the referees were at it again during the game.

The Seagulls had goals from Solly March and Deniz Undav ruled out for offside. Meanwhile, penalty shouts from Joey Veltman and Kaoru Mitoma went unchecked.

Manor Solomon then grabbed a late winner for the Cottagers, leaving De Zerbi furious with the officials on the touchline.

As punishment for his behaviour, the Italian tactician has been fined £15,000 and will miss Saturday’s home match against West Ham United.

A statement from The Football Association read: “Brighton & Hove Albion’s Roberto De Zerbi has been suspended from the touchline for one match and fined £15,000 following their Premier League game against Fulham on Saturday, February 18.

“The head coach admitted that his behaviour on the pitch at full time was improper and that his behaviour and/or language in the tunnel afterwards towards a match official was abusive and/or insulting and/or improper. 

“An independent Regulatory Commission imposed his sanctions following a subsequent hearing.”

Brighton, who are currently eighth in the Premier League, will welcome relegation-threatened West Ham to the Amex Stadium on Saturday.

The Seagulls will be looking to return to winning ways without their manager to bolster their chances of a European finish.