Charlton boss Bowyer ‘surprised and disappointed’ by three-match touchline ban

Charlton manager Lee Bowyer says he is “surprised and disappointed” to have been given a three-match touchline ban and a fine by the Football Association after admitting a misconduct charge over comments he made to a referee.

Bowyer was charged following incidents which occurred during and after Charlton’s 2-1 defeat to Swansea on October 2, when Bowyer’s side squandered an early lead and the Swans moved top of the table.

Bowyer told Charlton’s official website: “I’m surprised and disappointed with the ban.

“I didn’t shout or swear in my discussion with the referee but it is what it is. My focus remains making sure we are ready for Saturday’s game against Derby County.”

The three-match ban begins immediately, meaning Bowyer will be missing from the dugout for matches at home to Derby, and away to Bristol City and West Brom.

An FA statement said: “Charlton Athletic manager, Lee Bowyer, has admitted a charge of improper conduct and/or questioning the integrity of a Match Official and received a three match touchline ban and a £4,000 fine.

“The incident took place during the EFL Championship fixture between Charlton Athletic and Swansea City on 2 October 2019.

“The ban will take immediate effect.”

Bowyer’s Charlton sit 10th in the Championship table with 18 points from 11 matches.