Arsenal are preparing to challenge the red card shown to teenage sensation Max Dowman during their disappointing Carabao Cup exit against Fleetwood Town.
The 16-year-old was dismissed late in Tuesday’s fourth-round clash after reacting angrily to a strong tackle from Fleetwood midfielder Harrison Neal. The incident could now leave the youngster facing a three-match domestic suspension.
Arsenal were subsequently eliminated on penalties, ending their hopes of winning the competition. However, the Gunners are determined to appeal Dowman’s dismissal in a bid to make him available for their upcoming fixtures.
The club must submit the necessary documents to the Football Association by 1pm GMT on Thursday. Arsenal are hoping the decision will arrive before their crucial Premier League encounter with Liverpool on Sunday.
If the appeal fails, Dowman would miss matches against Liverpool, Hull City and Newcastle United. He would not be eligible for domestic action again until Arsenal face Manchester City on November 29.
However, the suspension would not affect European fixtures, meaning the teenager could still feature against Slavia Prague in the Champions League on November 4.
ARTETA REVEALS BRIEF EXCHANGE WITH DOWMAN
Mikel Arteta also provided a small insight into his interaction with Dowman following the youngster’s dismissal.
As the teenager walked past the Arsenal dugout and headed towards the tunnel, the Gunners manager leaned towards him and appeared to give him a stern talking-to.
When asked about their conversation, Arteta explained: “It was something that we discussed before the game.”
The Spaniard refused to reveal more details when questioned further, leaving fans wondering exactly what had been discussed before the match.
Arsenal will now await the FA’s verdict as they attempt to overturn the decision and avoid losing one of their promising young talents for three important domestic games.
