Albert Watson has revealed he was hit with a whopping seven-match suspension while in his role as Larne’s U20s manager for telling a referee “you've been cheating our team all day” – with the ban extending over to his playing duties at Newry City.

Watson has won Premiership titles with both Linfield and Larne alongside enjoying further spells at Ballymena United, Carrick Rangers, Armagh City and is now on Newry’s books.

The 41-year-old is forging a career in management and has worked in Larne’s academy set-up since 2023 – he stepped up to become U20 boss ahead of last season.

Watson was shown a red card in the dying moments of Larne Olympic’s 2-0 Steel & Sons Cup defeat to Suffolk on August 15 and hasn’t been on the touchline for his side’s last five NIFL U20 Premiership Development League matches.

placeholder image — Albert Watson is in charge of Larne's U20 team and also plays for Newry City. (Photo by INPHO/Stephen Hamilton)

However, not only has Watson been unable to carry out his managerial duties from the dugout, he’s also unavailable for selection to play in the Championship for Newry while he serves the suspension.

Watson joined Stuart King’s side from Armagh in January and hasn’t featured since their 4-1 defeat to Glenavon on August 11 – they’ve played six matches across all competitions since.

"I maybe shouted at the referee too much and I got suspended managing the U20s, it carries over to playing,” said Watson on BBC Sportsound. “I was injured, I did my calf and was coming back from it, but got that suspension.

"I got a seven-game suspension. I said 'you've been cheating our team all day' and because I questioned his integrity I got seven games.”

The Championship has produced thrilling drama and action once again this season.

Unbeaten leaders Newington drew 5-5 against Dundela on Saturday while Warrenpoint Town beat Moyola Park 6-2 and Institute defeated Armagh City 5-3 at Holm Park.

Last weekend, Queen’s University and Ballinamallard United both scored six goals apiece in their respective wins over Strabane Athletic and Loughgall.

While Watson has played the majority of his career in Northern Ireland’s top-flight, he has enjoyed an opportunity to experience the excitement of the Championship.

"With the 16 teams this season it has made it even more interesting, even more exciting,” said Watson. “There's some really good teams in the division.

"You can see there's a lot of investment in the teams if you look at the Welders, Glenavon, some investment has been done. It has made for a brilliant spectacle."