Gregory ban a blow to Rams

John Gregory has words with officials

Rams Boss John Gregory has been handed a five match touchline ban alone with a fine of £7,500 for foul and abusive language at a fourth official during a match last month.

Referee Clive Penton sent Gregory to the stands after aiming his frustration at the fourth official, Steve Tomlinson, during the 6-2 mauling of the Rams by Portsmouth on the 8^th February.

The touchline ban will come into effect on the 31^st March and Gregory will not be allowed at pitch side for the visit of Norwich to Pride Park on April 5^th. The Rams manager will also have to sit in the stands for the away game against Wimbledon (Sat April 12^{th), The} home game against Coventry City (Thur April 17^th) and the two away matches against Watford (Mon April 21^st) and Walsall Sat April 26^th).

John Gregory will be available pitch side for the final and possibly crucial match at home against Ipswich Town on Sunday 4^th May.

This ban could not have come at a more crucial time for Derby County as the team continues to slide toward a relegation place.