The eccentric American chief's strong comments in the wake of his side's loss to Liverpool have earned him a suspension

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UEFA has slapped president James Pallotta with a series of matchday sanctions following his criticism of referees.

The American will serve a three-month ban from performing official duties in European fixtures after labelling the officiating in May's semi-final second-leg clash with as "embarrassing" and calling for VAR to be introduced.

Roma lost the tie 7-6 on aggregate despite a 4-2 win in the return encounter at Stadio Olimpico.

Pallotta later laughed off the proceedings after UEFA issued an improper conduct charge.

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"I'm surprised by the opening of this disciplinary procedure," Pallotta told Italian news agency ANSA.

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"For me it is UEFA's conduct which is inappropriate. What do I think? I'm dying of laughter."

He went even further in quotes reported by Roma's Twitter account, posing the question "If I'm not allowed in the locker room, not sure where I get my pre-match massage?"

UEFA appeal incoming from Pallotta 😉



“If I’m not allowed in locker room, not sure where I get my pre-match massage?” pic.twitter.com/7tEYfJYgiI — AS Roma English (@ASRomaEN) 20 de julio de 2018

The American's suspension prevents him from communicating with players and coaches, while he is not allowed to enter the technical area, dressing room or tunnel before or during matches.

The sanctions come into force beginning with Roma's first appearance in a European competition this season.

Roma enjoyed a shock run to the last four during 2017-18 after dispatching in a thrilling quarter-final comeback.

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Pallotta was also sanctioned following that tie, as he was forced to pay a €500 fine after backflipping into a Roman fountain during celebrations.

The president took his punishment that time in good grace, and despite his ban will once again be a colourful presence in the European competition during 2018-18.

Roma and Pallotta will be back in the race for the coming season after finishing third in behind and , sealing another Champions League spot.