Friday 8 January 2016 12:52, UK
Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe says he was surprised to see Simon Francis’ red card appeal rejected.
Francis was shown a straight red card by referee Andre Marriner for his last-ditch tackle on Jamie Vardy at the King Power Stadium on Saturday, despite television replays showing he got a touch on the ball.
On Tuesday, the FA's Independent Regulatory Commission upheld Marriner's decision and Francis will now serve a one-match suspension.
Howe said: "I was surprised because we wouldn't have appealed if we didn't believe that there was a very good case for Simon getting off but there was always an element of chance that the referee would uphold his decision.
"It's a shame I think for football that that type of challenge, that tackle at that moment is regarded as a free kick [but] in my opinion because he has taken the ball, it wasn't dangerous in my eyes and for me it is one of the best tackles you will see all season.
"For that to be called a foul by the officials is a shame because it is taking tackling away from the game and I think that is one of the most beautiful arts in it."
Howe added: "I haven't received anything yet to say why they made the decision they did so I will be waiting for that and interested to see what they say."
