FA reject Defoe appeal
The free-scoring centre forward was dismissed for violent conduct against Walsall earlier in December, but The Hammers opted to appeal after studying video evidence.
However, after reviewing the incident, The FA felt the initial decision was correct and upheld the ruling.
A statement on The FA's website read: "Jermain Defoe's appeal for wrongful dismissal has been rejected.
"Defoe was sent off for violent conduct in the First Division match between Walsall and West Ham United on 20 December, 2003.
"As a result his five-match suspension stands and will start from 3 January, 2004."
Defoe's ban will take in the FA Cup tie with Wigan, plus league matches against Preston, Sheffield United, Rotherham and Bradford, unless the cup game goes to a replay.
The news will be a real blow to the plans of Hammers chief Alan Pardew who is looking to guide the club back into The Premiership at the first time of asking.
More positive news for Pardew is that Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren has allowed The Hammers to keep Robbie Stockdale for a third month.
