For your clarification, Thomas Vermaelen will only miss one domestic match.
The Belgian was adjudged to have fouled Guillermo Franco in what was perceived as a goal scoring opportunity by the referee, thus resulting in a sending off for Arsenal’s defender.
TV replays showed Vermaelen was harshly punished as he appeared to make little contact with West Ham’s striker before gaining the ball.
Almunia’s courageous save meant that rueful decision failed to cost Arsenal but the Gunners will now have to do without the only player to have played in every single league match this season next week.
As it stands, Vermaelen is set to miss only next weekend’s visit to Birmingham City.
According to FA rules, a straight red card for “denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity” results in a single match ban. Only when a red card is for “violent and/or dangerous behavior” is the player banned for three matches.
So Vermaelen should return for the home clash with Wolves and the North London derby after next week’s absence.
