Arsenal to appeal against Dowman red card

Arsenal are set to appeal the red card shown to 16-year-old midfielder Max Dowman during Tuesday’s Carabao Cup encounter against Fleetwood.

Dowman was sent off in the 85th minute after reacting to a strong challenge from Fleetwood’s Harrison Neal. Although the teenager did not fully kick out at his opponent, his foot made contact with Neal.

The match ended 1-1 before League Two side Fleetwood defeated the Premier League champions 5-3 in the penalty shootout.

The dismissal marked Dowman’s second red card this month, having also been sent off while playing for England’s Under-19 team.

As the young midfielder walked off the pitch, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta appeared visibly displeased, giving him a stern look and seemingly making an angry remark.

Speaking after the match, Arteta said the team had clearly discussed the importance of controlling their emotions and respecting the rules before the game.

Dowman was dismissed for violent conduct, an offence defined under football regulations as using or attempting to use excessive force or brutality against an opponent when not challenging for the ball, whether or not physical contact occurs.

Under the current rules, the midfielder faces a potential three-match suspension.

Arsenal are already short of options on the wings, with Bukayo Saka, Christos Tzolis and Noni Madueke sidelined by injuries.

Arteta’s side will return to Premier League action on Sunday when they travel to face Liverpool.