The Football Association has rejected Chelsea's appeal against the red card received by Ashley Cole in the 4-4 draw with Aston Villa.

Cole became the third player to be dismissed in a pulsating Boxing Day encounter as referee Phil Dowd adjudged that he had handled Gabriel Agbonlahor's header on the line.

The result was a penalty for Aston Villa in stoppage time and Gareth Barry scored to deny Chelsea victory.

However, the appeal has now been rejected and Cole must now serve a one-match ban which will see him miss Saturday's home game against Newcastle.

The news will come as a major blow to Grant, who has lost a number of players to injuries and suspensions in recent weeks.