Very harsh on Boro again. He had no idea Clichy was there. And he certainly didn't 'kick' him.
Mido will serve three-match ban
Mido was hoping to have his red card reversed (Getty)
Middlesbrough striker Mido will serve a three-match ban after referee Mark Halsey confirmed that his red card at Arsenal will not be rescinded. Mido was given a straight red card after kicking Gael Clichy in the face towards the end of the 1-1 draw.
Boro boss Gareth Southgate has spoken to referees' chief Keith Hackett and Halsey, who have both confirmed the decision will stand. He misses home games against Derby and Manchester United and away to Chelsea.Arsenal defender Clichy was left with a cut to his head after the clash with Mido. But Southgate felt the striker - who had only been on the pitch for a few minutes - had made a genuine attempt to claim the ball.
"I don't think he meant it. He caught him but he was looking at the ball the whole time and Mido is distraught because he's not a dirty player," said the Boro boss.
"He's been to see Clichy and he's disappointed that the knock is so bad. "Should he have his foot that high? Maybe not, but I don't think there was any intent there and a three-game ban would be harsh."