Everton have expressed their shock and disappointment after the Football Association (FA) rejected their appeal against Michael Keane’s red card in the Premier League draw with Wolves. The decision means the 32-year-old centre-back will serve a three-game suspension, a punishment the club described as “clearly excessive.”

Details of the Incident

Keane was shown a red card following a VAR review for pulling the hair of Wolves forward Tolu Arokodare during Everton’s 1-1 draw on Wednesday. Everton had already seen both Keane and Jack Grealish sent off in the closing stages of the match, compounding the club’s frustrations.

Under the FA rules, hair-pulling is categorised as violent conduct, as it is not considered a natural action when challenging for the ball. Despite this, Everton argued that the action was neither forceful nor intentional, noting that Keane has never before been dismissed for violent conduct in his professional career.

Everton’s Appeal and Manager Reaction

Everton lodged an appeal in an effort to reduce or overturn the suspension, citing Keane’s excellent disciplinary record and belief that the incident did not meet the threshold for violent conduct. However, the appeal was rejected by a three-person FA panel, leaving Keane to miss:

• The FA Cup tie against Sunderland on Saturday
• Premier League games against Aston Villa and Leeds United

Speaking at a press conference, Everton manager David Moyes voiced his frustration:

“Hugely disappointed. Hugely surprised. I’m probably more angry with the panel who thought that was the case. I know who the three are and I’m amazed they didn’t overturn it. Three games for what shouldn’t have been any games is extraordinary.”

Moyes also criticized the role of VAR, suggesting the young referee was unfairly influenced:

“I’m embarrassed for whoever was on VAR. This is a young referee doing only his third or fourth game and VAR gave him a terrible decision. They shouldn’t have got involved at all.”

Context of the Decision

While hair-pulling is not explicitly mentioned in the Laws of the Game, it falls under violent conduct, which typically warrants a three-match ban. Everton maintain that Keane’s actions were accidental and did not warrant the maximum punishment.

The incident occurred during a competitive Premier League match, where Wolves secured a 1-1 draw despite Everton being reduced to nine men. This has amplified the club’s frustration with the decision.

Club Statement

Everton released a statement reiterating their support for Keane:

“We appealed in the firm belief the incident did not meet the threshold for violent conduct as defined in the rules, and that the action was neither forceful nor intentional. Our appeal was also lodged in support of Michael Keane, a player who plays the game with the highest ethical standards. The severity of the three-game suspension is clearly excessive, and we are surprised and disappointed that this point of appeal has also been rejected.”

The club and Moyes have expressed disappointment in both the panel’s decision and the involvement of VAR in a young referee’s call.

Implications for Everton

Keane’s suspension is a major blow to Everton, who now face three matches without a key defensive presence. The decision raises broader questions about VAR involvement in red card decisions, particularly for incidents that occur in the closing stages of matches.

As Everton continue their Premier League campaign, the club will need to adjust their defensive line-up while navigating the ongoing debate over VAR consistency and disciplinary standards in English football.