- Arsenal teenager Max Dowman has been handed a three-match ban after the Football Association rejected the club's appeal against his red card during their defeat to Fleetwood Town.
- The 16-year-old was sent off for violent conduct in the 85th minute of the match after kicking out at Harrison Neal following a heavy tackle from behind.
- An independent FA commission dismissed Arsenal's claims of wrongful dismissal and excessive punishment, confirming that written reasons for the decision will be released shortly.
- Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed frustration over the sending-off, having previously instructed the youngster to maintain emotional control and refrain from reacting to physical play.
- Dowman's absence exacerbates selection difficulties for Arsenal ahead of their trip to Anfield, with wide players Bukayo Saka, Christos Tzolis and Noni Madueke already sidelined through injury.
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