CHELSEA SHOCKED AS MATIC HAS THREE-GAME BAN REDUCED

Chelsea have released a statement saying they are ‘disappointed’ at the Football Association’s decision not to clear Nemanja Matic.

The Serbian midfielder was charged with misconduct after clattering into the back of Burnley’s Ashley Barnes following a strong challenge from the Clarets striker in the second half of Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.

The reaction prompted referee Martin Atkinson to brandish a red card which saw Matic make way in the 70th minute and pick up a three-game ban in the process.

Chelsea opted to appeal the decision on Tuesday but were shocked to find that the FA had only reduced the ban to one game while Barnes was cleared.

The suspension will force former Benfica man Matic out of this weekend’s Capital One Cup final with Tottenham at Wembley and has infuriated the Blues.

"The Chelsea Football Club Board is extremely disappointed and frustrated that the FA Regulatory Commission has today decided not to reduce Nemanja Matic’s suspension to the maximum extent permitted under FA rules,” read a club statement.

"Chelsea FC challenged the standard three-match suspension which automatically followed the red card issued to Matic by referee Martin Atkinson during Saturday’s Premier League match against Burnley.

"There has been universal condemnation of the reckless challenge made by Ashley Barnes on Matic and it is the club’s view that he has been unjustly punished with a two-match ban for his reaction to a career-threatening tackle.

"It is Chelsea’s opinion that referees and the football authorities must do more to protect players at all levels of the game from dangerous challenges. This decision also clearly demonstrates a need for consistency and fairness in the disciplinary process.

"The club awaits the FA’s written reasons, prior to commenting further."