Cudicini to miss Carling Cup Final

Carlo Cudicini will definitely miss the Carling Cup final after Chelsea withdrew their appeal against the red card he received in Sunday’s FA Cup tie at Newcastle.

The Italian was dismissed late in the 1-0 defeat at St James’ Park when he brought down Shola Ameobi just outside his penalty area.

Chelsea had hoped to overturn the decision as Cudicini had been promised a place in Sunday’s final against Liverpool at the Millennium Stadium by manager Jose Mourinho.

But they stood little chance of overturning the red card and they have decided not to pursue their appeal.