BRIGHTON boss Roberto De Zerbi could be hit with a touchline ban after being charged by the Football Association for his outburst at ref Darren England last weekend.
The Italian coach erupted at England in the tunnel following Brighton’s late defeat to Fulham last Saturday before hitting out at his “attitude” during his post-match press conference.
De Zerbi was shown a red card for his behaviour after the final whistle and will now have to face an FA hearing.
The case is being treated as non-standard by the governing body.
The FA said: “Brighton and Hove Albion’s Roberto De Zerbi has been charged following their Premier League game against Fulham on Saturday 18 February.
“It’s alleged that the manager’s behaviour on the pitch at full time was improper, and that his behaviour and/or language towards a match official in the tunnel afterwards was abusive and/or insulting and/or improper.”
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De Zerbi insisted after the match that he did not use any foul language towards England.
But he did claim that members of staff from Fulham did swear at the ref.
A ban could see De Zerbi miss Brighton’s next Premier League game, against West Ham on March 4.
This could be a boost for the Hammers, who have never beaten the South Coast side in the Premier League.
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The Italian has worked wonders since taking over from Graham Potter this season at Brighton.
The manager has helped the club to 7th place in the Premier League table.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
