A frustrated Antonio Conte was sent to the stands by match referee Neil Swarbrick following his outburst at fourth official Lee Mason during Chelsea's 1-0 win over Swansea on Wednesday night, and he has now given take on the incident.
The Italian was given his marching orders after he furiously protested the match officials' failure to award his side a corner kick after Swansea defender Alfie Mawson deflected the ball out after a cross.
After the match, the 48-year-old apologised for his touchline behaviour, and insisted it was simply a case of his frustration boiling over.
"After the game, I think it's normal, it's right to apologise for what happened during the game," Conte said, as quoted by FourFourTwo.
"During the game, in the first half, I saw that Swansea were wasting time. I said this a few times to the fourth official. At the same time, I didn't see something change in the first half. I was frustrated for this situation. I tried to tell again, but then the referee took this decision.
"I repeat: I apologise for this. I was frustrated. For sure, I made a mistake. During the game, I suffer. With my players, I suffer. It's a pity.
"They are wasting time. I was a bit animated. I said this, and I shout this. It was not the first time. I think for this reason the fourth official lost his patience. But I repeat: the fault was mine, not the fourth official's. I apologise for this. I was frustrated."
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The Italian will most likely serve a touchline ban for his side's match against Newcastle United on Saturday.
Do you think managers should be allowed to get animated on the side of the field during games? Have your say in the comments section below.
