FA overturns Upton Park red cards
Everton and West Ham have both succeeded in their appeals against red cards given to Darron Gibson and Carlton Cole in last Saturday’s Barclays Premier League match at Upton Park.
Hammers striker Cole was sent off by referee Anthony Taylor for a high challenge on Leighton Baines and Toffees midfielder Gibson followed suit for a similar challenge on Mark Noble during Everton’s 2-1 win.
Everton lodged their appeal with the Football Association on Christmas Eve, meaning Gibson was able to face Wigan on Boxing Day, and announced on their website today that the dismissal had been quashed at a hearing.
It means the former Manchester United player will not face a three-match ban.
Cole has also seen West Ham’s appeal over his red card upheld by the FA meaning he will be available for Saturday’s Premier League match against Reading.
A statement from the FA said: “The FA can confirm that red cards shown to both Carlton Cole and Darron Gibson have been rescinded.
“Both players were sent from the field of play in the Premier League fixture between West Ham United and Everton at Upton Park on Saturday 22 December.
“Their three-match suspensions have been withdrawn immediately and written reasons will be provided at a later date.”
