Charlton boss Lee Bowyer 'surprised and disappointed' after being hit with three-match touchline ban

Charlton Athletic manager Lee Bowyer has been hit with a three-game touchline ban after admitting a Football Association (FA) improper conduct charge.

Bowyer has been charged for comments he made to referee Peter Bankes during and in the tunnel after Charlton’s 2-1 defeat to Swansea on October 2.

He has also been fined £4,000 and will have to sit in the stands for games against Derby County, Bristol City and West Brom.

Bowyer said: “I am surprised and disappointed with the ban.

"I did not 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.”

Bowyer was issued with a warning by the FA in September after he was sent off against Birmingham City.

An FA spokesman 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.”