Everton and West Ham have both succeeded in their appeals against red cards given to Republic of Ireland international Darron Gibson and Carlton Cole in last Saturday’s Premier League match at Upton Park.
West Ham striker Cole was sent off by referee Anthony Taylor for a high challenge on Leighton Baines and Everton midfielder Gibson followed suit for a similar challenge on Mark Noble during the Merseyside outfit’s 2-1 victory in London.
Everton lodged their appeal with the English Football Association on Christmas Eve, meaning Gibson was able to face Wigan on St Stephen’s Day.
Cole has also seen West Ham’s appeal over his red card upheld by the FA, meaning he will be available for tomorrow’s Premier League match against Reading.
A statement from the FA said: “The FA can confirm that red cards shown to both Carlton Cole and Darron Gibson have been rescinded.
“Both players were sent from the field of play in the Premier League fixture between West Ham United and Everton at Upton Park on Saturday 22nd December.
“Their three-match suspensions have been withdrawn immediately and written reasons will be provided at a later date.”
Cole wrote on Twitter: “Great news that the red card got overturned, FA done a great job. Well done! Time to make all the aggro worth it on Saturday if selected!”
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