By Karim Hammam
Arsenal teenager Max Dowman will miss three matches after the club's appeal against his red card in Tuesday's Carabao Cup defeat to Fleetwood Town was rejected by the Football Association.
Appeal rejected
The 16-year-old midfielder was shown a straight red card in the 85th minute for violent conduct after reacting to a heavy challenge by Fleetwood's Harrison Neal. Although Dowman did not fully kick out, his foot made contact with Neal. The game finished 1-1 before League Two Fleetwood won 5-3 on penalties.
Second dismissal this month
It was Dowman's second sending-off in recent weeks, having also been dismissed while playing for England's Under-19 side. Arsenal appealed the decision on Wednesday, but the ban has been upheld.
Arteta's reaction
As Dowman left the pitch, manager Mikel Arteta gave him a scathing look and appeared to make an angry comment. After the match, Arteta said the team had been clear on the need to control emotions. "When we prepared the context of the match, we were very clear on the things to respect, the things that emotionally we have to dominate. It was very clear," he said.
Injury concerns
The suspension leaves Arsenal short on wing options, with Bukayo Saka, Christos Tzolis and Noni Madueke all currently sidelined through injury.
Upcoming fixture
Arteta's side return to Premier League action away to Liverpool on Sunday.
