Arsenal lose appeal against Dowman's red card

Arsenal have lost their appeal against the red card shown to 16-year-old Max Dowman in the Carabao Cup match, where they were knocked out on penalties by League Two side Fleetwood Town. Dowman was sent off in the second half for kicking out at Harrison Neal after a robust challenge. The incident, treated as violent conduct, resulted in a three-match ban. The English Football Association's independent commission rejected the club's claims of unfair dismissal and a disproportionate sanction.

Under the ruling, the young player will miss the matches against Liverpool, Hull City and Newcastle United. The decision also delays Dowman's first Premier League appearance, a chance he has had limited time to earn this season.

Injuries in the wide positions are making the situation worse. Eberechi Eze is the only fit senior player for the Liverpool match at Anfield on Sunday. Noni Madueke missed the Fleetwood game with an ankle injury and his status remains unclear. Christos Tzolis is close to returning from injury, but it is not certain whether he will be available. Bukayo Saka will be out for weeks with a quadriceps injury sustained in the Champions League match against Bayern Munich.

If Madueke and Tzolis are not ready, Mikel Arteta could give young Ceadach O'Neill a chance. O'Neill stood out at times in the Fleetwood game, but he has yet to play in the Premier League. If Arteta prefers experience, Kai Havertz could also play on the wing.