Ronaldo banned after losing red card appeal

Winger Cristiano Ronaldo will miss Manchester United's next three matches after failing to overturn the red card he received in last weekend's Manchester derby.

The Portuguese was sent off for a high challenge on ex-United striker Andy Cole in the 66th-minute of Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Manchester City.

Although Ronaldo did not make any contact, referee Steve Bennett decided the studs-up challenge was serious foul play and sent him off (see picture).

In a statement, the English FA said its Disciplinary Commission had rejected Ronaldo's claim for wrongful dismissal.

His three-match ban starts immediately, meaning he will miss today's FA Cup replay against Burton, Sunday's league match at home to Liverpool and the second leg of their League Cup semi-final against Blackburn on January 25.