Campbell ban still stands
Friday, April 25, 2003
Article summary
Arsenal FC's Sol Campbell has lost his appeal against a four-match ban ruling him out of the FA Cup final.
Article body
FA confirmation
Campbell was sent off in the 2-2 draw against Manchester United FC last week after apparently elbowing United's Ole Gunnar Solskjær. The England defender's club had contested the decision but the Football Association today confirmed the suspension would stand.
Panel review
"After being referred to the Video Advisory Panel for their consideration, we can confirm that Sol Campbell's sending-off in last Wednesday's Premiership match against Manchester United at Highbury will stand," the FA said in a statement.
Key man
Campbell, dismissed twice this term, has started 32 of Arsenal's 34 league games to date. He has been one of the Londoners' key men as they seek a second successive league and cup double. The ban will begin on 30 April, meaning tomorrow's match at Bolton Wanderers FC will be his last of the campaign. The season finishes with the FA Cup final against Southampton FC on 17 May.
Close finish
Arsenal are three points behind United with a game in hand. The Gunners have conceded 36 goals to United's 32 but have a one-goal superior goal difference after scoring 71 goals to United's 66.