Sunderland's Caldwell in the clear

Steven Caldwell has had his sending off against West Ham on Saturday rescinded by the Football Association.

Caldwell was dismissed for violent conduct following an incident involving Hammers' midfielder Luke Chadwick.

Black Cats boss Mick McCarthy was unhappy with referee Graham Salisbury’s decision, claiming Caldwell made a genuine attempt to get the ball, and lodged an immediate appeal.

The FA today admitted Caldwell had been the victim of a ‘wrongful dismissal’ and McCarthy said: “I’m delighted and it means we’ll have Steve available for the busy Christmas period.

“There’s a lot of games in a short space of time and we need a full squad.

“He’s an honest lad and always maintained his innocence from the outset. I’d like to thank the FA for taking the time to consider it and I’m pleased that common sense has prevailed.”