Anelka appeal fails

Nicolas Anelka's appeal against the red card he received in Manchester City's 2-1 defeat at Arsenal has failed.

The Football Association have confirmed that Anelka will serve a three-match suspension, beginning with the Premiership trip to Bolton on February 21. He will also miss home games against Chelsea and Manchester United.

Anelka was sent off in the 2-1 defeat at Highbury last Sunday following a clash with Ashley Cole immediately after the French striker scored City's goal.

The FA confirmed the news on their website. A statement read: "We can confirm that the FA has today informed Manchester City that their claim for wrongful dismissal on behalf of Nicolas Anelka, following his sending off at Highbury on Sunday, has been unsuccessful.

"This claim was viewed by the video advisory panel."