Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi has been given a formal warning by the Football Association over his future conduct after recent comments about referees.
The Italian, 44, said he disliked “80% of England’s referees” after his side’s 1-1 draw with Sheffield United on 12 November.
Brighton had led for much of the match before midfielder Mahmoud Dahoud was sent off.The Blades equalised shortly after Dahoud was dismissed by John Brooks.
De Zerbi spoke to the officials after the full-time whistle before making the comments about referees in a post-match news conference.”I am honest and clear – I don’t like 80% of England’s referees,” De Zerbi had said.”It’s not new. I don’t like them.
I don’t like their behaviour on the pitch.”Brighton are currently eighth in the Premier League table and return to action on Saturday with a trip to Nottingham Forest.
