Nuno Espirito Santo and Morgan Gibbs-White faced consequences for using inappropriate language towards match officials during Nottingham Forest’s match against Brighton and Hove Albion, it has been reported.
Head coach Nuno Espirito was handed a three-match touchline ban for his behavior during a recent 2-2 draw at the Amex Stadium, while Gibbs-White received a one-match suspension for his reaction to getting a red card. Both were found guilty of acting improperly and using abusive language by the Football Association.
Nuno and Gibbs-White admitted to the charges and expressed genuine remorse, which was taken into consideration by the Regulatory Commission when deciding their punishments. However, Nuno’s past disciplinary issues worked against him in this case.
Reports from referee Rob Jones and fourth official Anthony Taylor played a key role in the commission’s decisions. Jones mentioned that Nuno was aggressive and used swear words towards him after Gibbs-White was sent off for a challenge on Joao Pedro. Both Nuno and Gibbs-White later apologized for their actions, with Nuno acknowledging the correct decision to dismiss Gibbs-White.
Gibbs-White was reported to have approached Taylor aggressively, using inappropriate language and pointing aggressively during the match. Despite apologizing and expressing regret for his behavior, he was still handed a one-match ban.
Nuno and Gibbs-White wrote letters of apology, with Gibbs-White admitting he let his emotions get the best of him and promising it would not happen again. Nuno also vowed to improve his conduct in the future. The commission acknowledged that Nuno was not suggesting bias with his comments towards Jones.
Both Nuno and Gibbs-White received suspensions based on their previous misconduct, with Nuno serving a three-match touchline ban and Gibbs-White getting a one-match suspension. Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler was fined but avoided a touchline ban for his involvement in the incident.
Nuno missed the recent game against Crystal Palace due to his suspension and will also sit out games against Leicester City and West Ham United. Gibbs-White, who was also banned for the Crystal Palace game, is expected to return for the match against Leicester City. Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is serving a stadium ban, and the club has appealed the decision against him.
