Arsenal striker Gervinho has lost his appeal against a three-match ban following his bust-up with Newcastle's Joey Barton in last weekend's Premier League clash.

Gervinho was given a red card for violent conduct after aiming a slap at Barton, who had grabbed the Ivory Coast forward after accusing him of diving in an attempt to win a penalty.

Arsenal had claimed the three-match ban was "clearly excessive" but an FA committee on Tuesday ruled the suspension would be upheld.

"Arsenal's Gervinho has had his three-match suspension for violent conduct confirmed today," read an FA statement.

"The player was sent off during Arsenal's fixture against Newcastle United at St James' Park on Saturday.

"Arsenal subsequently lodged a claim that the standard punishment of three matches was clearly excessive.

"A commission heard the claim today and dismissed it, meaning the player must serve a three-match suspension with immediate effect."

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