ARSENAL have failed in their appeal against Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s three-match ban – leaving boss Mikel Arteta without his star striker for some key clashes.
The Gabon forward, 30, is the Gunners’ top scorer this season with 16 goals in all competitions.
Aubameyang has had his red card upheld and will miss three matchesCredit: Alamy Live News
Aubameyang was sent off after catching Meyer high on the ankle with his studsCredit: Alamy Live News
But his red card – picked up for a wild lunge on Max Meyer against Crystal Palace – has been upheld.
Aubameyang will now miss three games, including the game at Chelsea.
Arsenal next take on Sheffield United at home this Saturday, before the trip to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.
Club captain Aubameyang will also miss the FA Cup fourth round clash away to Bournemouth on January 27.
The former Borussia Dortmund striker was sent off after a check in with VAR, having initially only been shown yellow by referee Paul Tierney.
A statement from the VAR governing body read: “In the 65th minute of Crystal Palace v Arsenal, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was shown a yellow card for a challenge on Max Meyer by referee Paul Tierney.
“The VAR looked at the incident and determined that the point of contact and the intensity of the challenge endangered the safety of the opponent and recommended upgrading the yellow card to a red card for serious foul play.”
Mikel Arteta is expected to field Alexandre Lacazette in Aubameyang’s place for the next three matches.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are hoping to boost their forward ranks – but not until the summer.
The Gunners are keen on signing Napoli ace Dries Mertens, with the Belgian’s contract expiring in the summer.
Arsenal are able to negotiate pre-contract terms with Mertens ahead of a free transfer on July 1.
Aubameyang to miss three matches including Chelsea away as Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta apologises for red card tackle
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
