Charlton boss Lee Bowyer has been handed a three-match touchline ban after an incident took place during his side's 2-1 defeat to Swansea City earlier this month.

Bowyer has admitted a charge of improper conduct and/or questioning the integrity of a Match Official during the clash, and he must now serve the aforementioned ban and pay a fine worth £4000.

The 42-year-old has overseen an impressive start to the season at Charlton following their promotion from League One last term, with the Addicks currently sitting 10th in the table after the first 11 matches.

The South London side have won five matches since making their Championship return in early August as they prepare to host Derby on the weekend after a two-week international break.

However, Bowyer will not be present on the touchline following his recent punishment, while he is also set to be absent for the Addicks' following two matches away to Bristol City and West Brom.

The Verdict

This is a disappointing blow for Charlton as Bowyer's absence will now put them at a disadvantage ahead of a difficult run of fixtures.

It has not been revealed exactly what earned Bowyer this punishment, but Charlton will be disappointed by the severity of the ban as it is somewhat unusual for a manager to be suspended from the touchline for such a lengthy period.

This development now means that Charlton must put extra work in on the training ground. It is important that the players know what Bowyer expects of them in a variety of match situations, so they can then react independently when different scenarios develop during the matches.

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