10 November,2010 09:11 AM IST | | Agencies
Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli has lost his appeal against a three-game ban after being sent-off against West Brom in the Premier League last weekend.
The Football Association upheld Tuesday the straight red card Balotelli, who scored both goals in a 2-0 win, received for violent conduct following a clash with Youssouf Mulumbu.
An FA statement said: "At a Regulatory Commission hearing today, a claim that the standard punishment is clearly excessive from Manchester City's Mario Balotelli was dismissed.
"As a result, Balotelli will serve a three-match suspension with immediate effect."
The decision means the 20-year-old Italy forward will miss not only Wednesday's Manchester derby but also the visit of Birmingham and City's subsequent trip to Fulham.
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