Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo says he is “surprised” after being banned from the touchline for three matches for his red card in the draw against Brighton last month.

Midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White, who was also charged for his reaction to being dismissed in the 2-2 draw, has been suspended for one game.

Gibbs-White was sent off in the 83rd minute after receiving a second booking, with Nuno and Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler both red carded in the aftermath.

“I’m surprised – it’s a big sanction but there’s nothing we can do,” said Nuno.

“It’s not for me to judge, my job is to move forward and make sure the coaching staff are ready to help the team.

“We had a hearing, everything was normal. The sanction has been decided. Let’s go.”

Nuno has also been fined £55,000 and Gibbs-White £20,000.

Hurzeler was given an £8,000 fine, but avoided a touchline ban.

A Football Association statement, external read: “It was alleged that the Nottingham Forest head coach [Nuno] acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words towards a match official.

“The Nottingham Forest midfielder [Gibbs-White] allegedly acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words towards the fourth official after being sent off.

“It was alleged that the Brighton and Hove Albion manager [Hurzeler] acted in an improper manner.”