Middlesbrough forward Cristhian Stuani hit with three-game ban

The Football Association has rejected Middlesbrough's appeal against Cristhian Stuani's violent conduct charge and banned the forward for three matches.

The charge relates to an incident that happened during the second half of Boro's 1-0 win over Preston North End on Saturday.

Referee Oliver Langford did not see the Uruguayan's act of wrongdoing, but it was caught on video.

Stuani was not included in Boro's matchday squad for tonight's home game against Reading, so will also miss the upcoming away games against Lancashire duo Bolton Wanderers and Burnley.