Arsenal have lost their appeal against Max Dowman’s EFL Cup red card and he now faces a three match suspension.
The 16-year-old was sent off in the 85th minute after kicking out at Harrison Neal following a strong challenge during the fourth-round tie.
Arsenal subsequently appealed against the decision, arguing that Dowman had been wrongfully dismissed and that the punishment was excessive.
However, the Football Association confirmed on Thursday that an independent commission had rejected both claims, upholding the original red card.
Dowman will now serve a three-match suspension for violent conduct, beginning with Arsenal’s Premier League trip to Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
The suspension comes at a difficult time for Mikel Arteta’s side, who are looking to recover from their unexpected EFL Cup exit after drawing 1-1 with Fleetwood before losing on penalties.
Arsenal are level on points with Premier League leaders Manchester City and will be determined to respond against Liverpool as they look to maintain their title challenge.
Meanwhile, Fleetwood have been rewarded for their remarkable cup run and will face another Premier League opponent, Everton, in the quarter-finals.
