Roberto De Zerbi could face BAN with FA looking into Brighton boss’ comments to see if he breached regulations
BRIGHTON boss Roberto De Zerbi could face FA action after his latest diatribe against refs.
The Italian slammed John Brook and fourth official Andy Madley after a straight red for Mahmoud Dahoud was the turning point of Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Sheffield United.
De Zerbi said: “I am honest and clear and I don’t like 80 per cent of referees in England.
“It’s not a new thing. I don’t like them or their behaviour on the pitch.”
Seagulls chief De Zerbi has been the scourge of top flight officials since his arrival on English soil, meaning a reputation among whistlers as the hardest boss to deal with in the Prem.
His latest stinging criticism came despite conceding that Dahoud had to see red for the challenge on Ben Osborn.
But Sun Sport can reveal that the FA is looking into the comments to see if they breach regulations.
Some PGMOL insiders feel that De Zerbi has overstepped the mark once too often with his comments and that action is required – whether a fine or even a ban.
It is being asked if De Zerbi should be considered in breach of the Participant Behaviour Charter introduced – with the backing of all clubs – at the start of the season.
That charter – part of the “Love Football Protect the Game” campaign, states that all coaches “must behave in a responsible manner”.
The weekend behaviour by a number of top flight bosses has increased private fears that pre-season vows have been completely forgotten.
Mikel Arteta accused officials of being a “disgrace” and “embarrassing” after Arsenal’s defeat at Newcastle, although he then went out of his way to praise Michael Oliver despite having Fabio Vieira sent off in the win over Burnley.
Chelsea chief Mauricio Pochettino then apologised to ref Anthony Taylor and fourth official Craig Pawson for his reaction at the final whistle of the 4-4 draw with Manchester City.
Poch, who received a yellow card, is likely to escape any other sanction unless Taylor’s official match report records the incident and suggests further action is required.