Koscielny to miss cup final after appeal fails

Ian Watson

The FA have rejected Arsenal’s appeal over Laurent Koscielny’s dismissal during Sunday’s 3-1 win over Everton.

Koscielny was sent off in the 14th minute following a lunging challenge on Enner Valencia, but the Gunners overcame their disadvantage to beat the Toffees, even though it was not enough to secure a Champions League place.

Arsenal appealed against the dismissal, hoping to overturn a three-match ban ahead of the weekend’s FA Cup final against Chelsea, but the FA today rejected their claim.

An FA statement read: “Laurent Koscielny will serve a three-match suspension with immediate effect after a claim of wrongful dismissal was unsuccessful.

“The Arsenal defender was sent off for serious foul play during the game against Everton on Sunday [21 May 2017].

“An Independent Regulatory Commission heard the case today [Tuesday 23 May 2017].”