Millwall have failed in their attempt to overturn a three-match ban for winger Femi Azeez, handing a significant pre-Christmas boost to their upcoming opponents Ipswich Town and Bristol City.
Appeal Fails, Suspension Stands
The club had appealed against the severity of the suspension handed to Azeez following a red card in last weekend's 3-1 defeat to Hull City. The incident, an off-the-ball clash with Hull's Kyle Joseph which was deemed a stamp, was reviewed by the football authorities.
Manager Alex Neil confirmed the unsuccessful appeal, meaning Azeez will now serve the full three-game ban. He will miss the Lions' trip to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, the Boxing Day home fixture against Ipswich Town, and the visit of Bristol City to The Den on December 29th.
Azeez will be eligible to return for Millwall's New Year's Day match against Southampton.
A 'Quality' Player Sidelined
The suspension is a major blow for Neil's side, who are already contending with a lengthy injury list. Azeez has been a key attacking threat, scoring six goals in his last ten Championship appearances.
Neil himself has previously hailed the 24-year-old's impact. Following a standout performance against West Brom in October, the manager said: "He carried a real threat... He's got a real good quality in terms of the final third areas. He's a threat."
His absence will undoubtedly be felt as Millwall navigate a congested festive schedule.
Referee Analysis Supports Decision
The decision to uphold the ban was supported by analysis from former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher. Speaking on Sky Sports, Gallagher stated that while the match official did not see the initial incident, the red card was correct.
"It is a red card offence," Gallagher said. "Somebody's alerted him to it, whether it be the fourth official or the assistant, but between them they've got it right."
This expert opinion underscores the challenge Millwall faced in their appeal, which focused on the length of the ban rather than the dismissal itself.
For Ipswich Town and Bristol City, the news represents an unexpected advantage as they prepare for their trips to the capital, facing a Millwall side deprived of one of its most in-form players.
