FA upholds Gervinho suspension after Joey Barton clash

The Football Association has confirmed the suspension of Arsenal's Gervinho for violent behaviour during the Gunners' goalless draw against Newcastle on Saturday.

The player was sent off during his debut for the club after slapping Magpies midfielder Joey Barton, who had angrily accused the Ivory Coast international of diving in the penalty area.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger suggested that he would appeal the dismissal after the game, but referee Peter Walton's decision was today upheld by the FA's regulatory commission.

The 24-year-old will miss games against Liverpool, Manchester United and Swansea City under the three-match ban.

> Click here to watch the scuffle