Why Chelsea boss Maresca has been hit with one-match ban

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca will serve a one-match touchline ban following his exuberant celebrations during the Blues’ thrilling win over Fulham.

The Italian saw his side claim a dramatic derby victory against their west London neighbours at Craven Cottage.

Chelsea were trailing with just seven minutes remaining in the match, but Tyrique George’s equaliser and Pedro Neto’s 93rd-minute winner turned the game in their favour.

That crucial victory has propelled the Blues into fifth place in the Premier League, keeping them in the race for Champions League qualification.

However, Maresca will be absent from the sidelines when Chelsea host Everton on Saturday.

The manager was shown a yellow card by referee Anthony Taylor during the wild celebrations that followed Neto’s late goal. The Chelsea bench erupted in jubilation, spilling onto the pitch in their excitement.

This development is far from ideal for Enzo Maresca, as his assistant, Willy Caballero, will likely have to take charge of the technical area this weekend.

Maresca saw his side claim a dramatic derby victory against their west London neighbours at Craven Cottage

Maresca has already come under fire from some Chelsea fans at Stamford Bridge in recent weeks, with criticism aimed at his tactical approach during the recent home draw against Ipswich.

After Sunday’s match, while the Chelsea players celebrated with the traveling supporters, Maresca made his way across the pitch and down the tunnel, opting not to join in with the post-match celebrations.

Maresca said after the game: “Today was an important win because first of all it’s a derby, second it gives us the chance to be there [in the Champions League qualification places].

“It was probably the most difficult win [of the season] and the reason why is because they all played yesterday, so for us it was a must-win game.

“And I think after we conceded the goal, that is the reason why we struggled a bit more because for the players it became more difficult and second half we were much better.”