Why Arsenal failed with Max Dowman red card appeal as FA release statement

Arsenal's appeal of Max Dowman's red card from the Carabao Cup loss to Fleetwood Town has been rejected; the 16-year-old must serve a three-match domestic suspension.

Arsenal youngster Max Dowman's appeal against his straight red card has been rejected by an FA Independent Regulatory Commission. Dowman was sent off late in the Carabao Cup fourth-round penalty shootout loss to Fleetwood Town at Highbury Stadium for kicking out after a heavy challenge from Fleetwood midfielder Harrison Neal.

Arsenal submitted two videos and a letter from secretary Zayna Perkins in their appeal, but the commission's majority view found that although Dowman received a forceful challenge he did not see coming, he had the option to step away but instead turned back towards Neal and made a retaliatory kick that "gave the referee a decision to make". A minority member felt his actions were petulant rather than violent conduct.

The commission rejected Dowman's age as a relevant factor and found no "truly exceptional" reason to alter the suspension. Arsenal argued the three-game ban was "clearly excessive", but the appeal was unanimously rejected. Dowman has already served one match of the ban in the win over Liverpool and will miss Premier League fixtures against Hull and Newcastle either side of the November international break.