Sébastien Joseph responds after suspension for abusive remarks towards referee in Lyon derby | OneFootball

Sébastien Joseph, head coach of Saint-Étienne’s women, has been suspended after abusing the referee during Sunday’s 0-4 defeat at Lyon’s Groupama Stadium, and he has admitted fault while insisting he should not be defined by one emotional lapse.

According to L'Équipe, the club placed him on precautionary leave and summoned him to a pre-dismissal meeting, and the match delegate recorded a vulgar slur aimed at the referee, before Joseph returned to apologise.

In a statement on Wednesday, he said the corridor flashpoint came after a heavy defeat with nerves frayed. He accepted responsibility for his emotions, stressed respect for referees and football’s values, and said he apologised without delay.

He added that he does not understand the suspension and argued that judging him on a single outburst ignores the consistency of his commitment and values.

Joseph manages a side sitting 11th in the Arkema Première Ligue. The disciplinary commission will examine the incidents on Thursday and is due to rule next week after hearing all parties, as required by procedure.

Source: L'Équipe