Empoli defender Lorenzo Tonelli has been punished by sporting judge, Gianpaolo Tosel, who has handed him a three-game ban after he received a red card during last Sunday’s Serie A fixture against Sassuolo.

Controversially, whilst Tonelli departed the pitch, he continued to criticise the match officials and also displayed a pair of visionary handcuffs, by crossing his arms and fists.

The suspension was officially confirmed by Tosel on Tuesday, however the centre-back has not yet revealed as to why his displayed this gesture.

However, it is evident that Tonelli was keen to imitate former Inter coach, Jose Mourinho, who had previously shown the imaginary handcuffs during a fixture against Sampdoria five years ago.

The gesture has been interpreted as a way of suggesting one’s side has been victimised by a referee.

Tonelli has so far accumulated 22 appearances for Empoli during this Serie A season, scoring two goals.