FA Clears Wes Brown After Wrongful Dismissal

The Football Association (FA) has upheld Wes Brown’s claim of wrongful dismissal during Sunderland’s 2-0 defeat at Manchester United on Saturday.

Referee Roger East apparently dismissed Brown in error for obstructing a goal-bound attacking move, after United striker Falcao appeared to be dragged down by John O’Shea as the former also moved in to make a challenge.

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) had said the incident was not a case of mistaken identity after the game at Old Trafford, stressing: “East thought Brown made a foul on Falcao as he was in the act of shooting.”

Wes Brown Wrongfully Shown Red Card at Old Trafford. Image: Pic Philip Oldham/Sportimage.
Wes Brown Wrongfully Shown Red Card at Old Trafford. Image: Pic Philip Oldham/Sportimage.

But the FA’s Independent Regulatory Commission has rescinded the decision. Brown’s one-match suspension has been withdrawn with immediate effect, meaning the ex-United defender is eligible to feature against Hull City at the KC Stadium tomorrow.