Roberto De Zerbi could face BAN, with FA probing the Brighton boss’s comments to see if he broke any regulations
BRIGHTON boss Roberto De Zerbi could face FA action after his recent diatribe against referees.
The Italian slammed John Brook and fourth official Andy Madley after a red card for Mahmoud Dahoud was the turning point in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Sheffield United.
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De Zerbi said: “I’m honest and clear and I don’t like 80 percent of the referees in England.
“It’s not a new thing. I don’t like her and her behavior on the pitch.”
Seagulls boss De Zerbi has been the scourge of top officials since his arrival on English soil, earning him a reputation among pipers as the Prem’s hardest boss to deal with.
His latest harsh criticism came despite admitting that Dahoud had to see red for the tackle on Ben Osborn.
But Sun Sport can reveal the FA is reviewing the comments to see if they breach the rules.
Some PGMOL insiders believe that De Zerbi has overstepped the mark with his comments one too many times and that action is needed – be it a fine or even a ban.
Questions are being raised as to whether De Zerbi should be considered in breach of the Participant Code of Conduct introduced at the start of the season with the support of all clubs.
This charter – part of the Love Football Protect the Game campaign – states that all coaches must “behave responsibly”.
The behavior of some top bosses at the weekend has heightened private fears that pre-season vows have been completely forgotten.
Mikel Arteta accused the officials of being a “disgrace” and “embarrassment” after Arsenal’s defeat at Newcastle, but then went out of his way to praise Michael Oliver despite Fabio Vieira being sent off in the win over Burnley.
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino then apologized to referee 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 expected to avoid further sanction unless Taylor’s official match report documents the incident and indicates that further action is required.