Gabriel appeal upheld by FA

Arsenal defender Gabriel’s red card against Chelsea has been overturned by the Football Association (FA).

The centre-back was sent off after a clash with Chelsea striker Diego Costa during the Gunners’ 2-0 Premier League defeat at Stamford Bridge.

The former Villarreal man had also been hit with a three-game ban for violent conduct as a result of the dismissal, prior to Arsenal’s decision to appeal.

But the FA has now confirmed it has upheld Gabriel’s claim for wrongful dismissal, meaning his suspension will not stand.

“Arsenal’s claim of wrongful dismissal in relation to Gabriel has been upheld following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing,” read a statement released via the FA website.

“The player’s three-match suspension has, therefore, been withdrawn with immediate effect.

“The player is currently subject to a separate FA charge of improper conduct in relation to Saturday’s game and has until 6pm [local time] on Thursday [24 September 2015] to reply.”

The separate improper conduct charge relates to Gabriel’s reaction following his red card, with the 24-year-old initially confronting referee Mike Dean rather than leaving the pitch. He could face a one-game ban should it be upheld.

Costa is facing a violent conduct charge for catching Laurent Koscielny with his hand, while both clubs have been charged for failing to control their players after a fracas on the pitch following Gabriel’s dismissal.