Gunners to appeal 'flawed' Eduardo ban

Arsenal claim UEFA made “obvious errors” in their decision to hand striker Eduardo a two-match European ban for diving, and intend to appeal the “deeply flawed” ruling.

European football’s governing body opened disciplinary proceedings against the Croatia international for “deceiving the referee” when he went down in the penalty box during last week’s Champions League qualifier against Celtic at Emirates Stadium, despite there appearing to be no contact with Celtic goalkeeper Artur Boruc.

Scottish Football Association chief executive Gordon Smith was quick to call for action against the Croatia international and UEFA subsequently began an investigation, which Gunners boss Arsene Wenger lambasted as a “witch-hunt”.

“The club is in receipt of UEFA’s reasoned decision in relation to the charge against Eduardo,” a statement read.

“We strongly believe that the decision taken is deeply flawed and not based on any forensic review of the video evidence available.

“There are obvious errors and inconsistencies in UEFA’s judgment and we intend to appeal.”