MK Dons boss Karl Robinson banned for abusive language

Karl Robinson's MK Dons are third in League One

MK Dons boss Karl Robinson has been given a four-game touchline ban for abusive language towards a Bradford player with reference to nationality.

Robinson has also been fined £3,000 and will have to attend a Football Association education programme.

He said he accepted the punishment, but denied referring to nationality.

The incident is believed to have occurred during a confrontation with French defender Christopher Routis as MK lost 2-1 to Bradford last September.

The touchline ban will apply to Saturday's home fixture against Barnsley and subsequent League One games against Scunthorpe, Crewe and Bristol City.

"I accept the punishment and respect the commission's ruling. However, I maintain that I didn't make any reference to the player's nationality," said Robinson.

"I do apologise if I caused any offence to the Bradford City player or anyone else in relation to my use of industrial language.

"Moving forward from this, my mind is fully focussed on preparing the team for forthcoming games."

The Dons are currently third in the table, six points behind Swindon and Bristol City, who currently occupy the automatic promotion places.