Arsenal’s Gabriel has ban overturned – but may receive another suspension for protesting ‘wrong’ red card against Chelsea
Arsenal have received a boost ahead of the north London derby after defender Gabriel had his red card against Chelsea rescinded and a three-match ban overturned on appeal.
The Brazil centre-back could yet be suspended later this week, however, as he still faces a charge of improper conduct for protesting his dismissal on Saturday at length.
Gunners chiefs successfully argued that Gabriel had not deserved to be sent off for appearing to aim a kick at Chelsea striker Diego Costa during the 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge.
Costa, who escaped punishment from referee Mike Dean at the time, has been banned for three games after the FA took retrospective action for violent conduct.
It means Gabriel is available for the Capital One Cup third round trip to Tottenham, though captain Per Mertesacker is in contention for a recall after recovering from a chest infection.
Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin is injured but manager Arsene Wenger has hinted he will name a strong team for the derby.
“I will make changes, for sure. How many? I’ve not decided,” Wenger said. “It will be quite an experienced squad with one or two younger players.”