Arsenal’s attempts to overturn Max Dowman’s dismissal and reduce its punishment have both failed. An independent Football Association commission upheld the three-match suspension after the 16-year-old kicked Harrison Neal during the Fleetwood Town cup tie. Dowman is unavailable against Liverpool, Hull and Newcastle as injuries limit Arsenal’s wide attacking options.
Arsenal have lost both appeals concerning Max Dowman’s dismissal against Fleetwood Town in the English League Cup. An independent Football Association commission rejected the club’s claim of wrongful dismissal and its separate argument that the punishment was excessive. The 16-year-old winger’s three-match domestic suspension remains in place.[1], [2]
Dowman kicked out at Fleetwood midfielder Harrison Neal after a heavy challenge during the 27 October tie. Referee Michael Salisbury dismissed him for violent conduct. Arsenal’s unsuccessful applications targeted both that decision and the length of the resulting ban. The Football Association said the commission’s written reasons for dismissing the claims were due for publication later.[1], [2]
The suspension covers Arsenal’s matches against Liverpool, Hull and Newcastle. The club is already dealing with injuries to wide attackers Noni Madueke, Christos Tzolis and Bukayo Saka. Manager Mikel Arteta had spoken to Dowman before the Fleetwood game about facing strong tackles and double marking, repeatedly urging him not to react to that treatment. Pundit Paul Merson also argued that Dowman needed to learn how to handle being targeted by opponents.[1]
