Kompany appeal rejected

Disappointing, but unsurprising news:

"An Independent Regulatory Commission has today dismissed a claim of wrongful dismissal from Manchester City's Vincent Kompany following his red card for serious foul play in the FA Cup third-round tie between Manchester City and Manchester United on 8 January 2012," said an FA statement.

"Kompany will serve a four-match suspension with immediate effect. The suspension consists of a statutory three-match suspension for serious foul play plus one additional game given this is Kompany's second dismissal of the season."

The timing of the ban could hurt City as with Kolo Toure away on International duty the squad is suddenly light at that position (after Roberto Mancini stating recently it was one of the most covered areas).

It does seem that Stefan Savic - rumoured to be on the move in January - will slot in alongside Joleon Lescott, but don't discount the possibility of Micah Richards moving into the middle, a position he played a few seasons ago.

The hope is that City can navigate the next four fixtures without Kompany, and given he has not missed much time this season it may present an opportunity for a mid-season break for him. The overriding concern however is that his influence is such that all four fixtures have a more daunting feel to them without his presence at the heart of the defence.