Brentford have lost their appeal against the red card shown to Igor Thiago in last weekend's defeat to Brighton. The striker was sent off at the Amex Stadium after being judged to have elbowed Chema Andres in the first half.
Long review ends in dismissal
Referee Michael Oliver conducted a lengthy review, going to the pitchside monitor to consult with the video assistant referees at Stockley Park. He concluded that violent conduct had occurred, and the Brazilian was dismissed on the Sussex coast, worsening his side's afternoon after they had fallen behind to Diego Gomez's opener.
Keith Andrews' team went on to lose 2-0, with Pascal Gross scoring from the penalty spot to secure all three points for the high-flying Seagulls.
Appeal rejected
Brentford appealed Thiago's three-game ban after the match, but confirmed in a short, written statement on the club's website that it had been turned down. "Brentford's appeal against Igor Thiago's red card in Sunday's Premier League match against Brighton and Hove Albion has been unsuccessful," the statement read. "The Brazilian forward's dismissal has been upheld, and he will now serve a three-match suspension."
Matches missed
The striker is set to miss the Bees' matches against Everton, Manchester United and Arsenal, which follow this week's international break. Thiago was called up by Carlo Ancelotti for last summer's World Cup in a surprise decision, and he led the line for the Selecao in their opening group game against Morocco, which they drew 1-1.
