Sunderland's appeal against the red card Max Power received against Oxford United on Saturday has failed and the midfielder will now serve a three-game ban, announced the club's official website.

Power received his marching orders in the 19th minute of the match at the Stadium of Light after recklessly lunging in on Oxford's Marcus Browne, just three minutes after Ricky Holmes had given the visitors the lead.

Charlie Wyke came on to make his debut after half-time and hauled Ross's side level just seven minutes later as he flicked home Lynden Gooch's effort on goal.

Despite the ban only being three matches, Power will also be banned for the Black Cats' Checkatrade Trophy match with Stoke City, but it will not count towards his suspension.

The former Wigan man will, therefore, miss League One matches against Fleetwood Town, Burton Albion and Rochdale.

The verdict

I do not think that the Black Cats can have too many complaints about the red card being upheld.

It was a reckless tackle from Power that endangered his opponent so it is no surprise that the decision has not been overturned.

I do, however, agree that it is a complete farce that he is also banned from their Checkatrade Trophy fixture even though it does not count towards the suspension.

It is completely nonsensical and something the EFL must change.