Sunderland have appealed against Michael Turners red card handed out at Manchester City on Saturday. Turner was dismissed after catching Gareth Barry in the face with an elbow during an aerial duel in the latter stages of the Black Cats' 4-3 defeat.

The FA have confirmed the appeal has been lodged and the case will now be assessed to decide whether Turner has a case.

Not that Black Cats boss Steve Bruce was holding out much hope in the immediate aftermath of the incident, having revealed he complained about Marriner's performance during a recent encounter with West Ham during which the West Midlands official sent off Kenwyne Jones.

"Because I have complained about him, I get that decision," said Bruce.

"I hope he can have a look at it and he can see it was a shuddering challenge between two of the most honest professionals you are going to get.

"Michael Turner got higher. That is the only reason he has caught Gareth Barry.

"You have got to raise your elbows when you are jumping for a ball. I might as well tell my centre-half not to head it next week because he might get sent off.

"I hope the referee looks at it again. I doubt it though."