Arsenal defender Gabriel Paulista’s three match ban for receiving a direct red card during the match against Chelsea on Saturday was lifted by the Football Association after the club had appealed against the decision of referee Mike Dean.
But the Brazilian-born defender could yet face punishment for refusing to leave the field after his dismissal. His charge of improper conduct still stands and Gabriel has until 6pm on Thursday to reply to that allegation.
The FA said: “Arsenal’s claim of wrongful dismissal in relation to Gabriel has been upheld following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing. The player’s three-match suspension has, therefore, been withdrawn with immediate effect. Gabriel was dismissed for violent conduct during the game against Chelsea on Saturday [19 September 2015].”
Paulista, who was expected to miss tomorrow’s capital One Cup clash against arch-rivals Tottenham, Arsenal’s away game against Leicester and home game against Manchester United because of the ban will be in contention for tomorrow’s North London derby following the decision of FA.