Nasri banned for three games as City ditch appeal

LONDON (AFP) –

Manchester City midfielder Samir Nasri (R) confronts Norwich City defender Sebastien Bassong before being sent off at Carrow Road stadium in Norwich on December 29, 2012.

Samir Nasri has been suspended for three matches after Manchester City opted not to appeal against the French midfielder’s controversial red card in the Premier League champions’ 4-3 win against Norwich.

Nasri was sent off in the first half at Carrow Road on Saturday for appearing to head-butt Norwich defender Sebastien Bassong.

However, there was minimal contact between the players and City manager Roberto Mancini was furious with the decision.

Mancini criticised referee Mike Jones and his linesmen after the match and suggested an appeal would be lodged.

But City announced on Monday that they will not attempt to overturn the decision, meaning former Arsenal star Nasri will be suspended for his side’s next three matches.

“The Football Association have confirmed that Samir Nasri will serve a three-match suspension, following his red card during the 4-3 win at Norwich on Saturday,” a statement on City’s website confirmed.

Nasri will miss the New Year’s Day home league game against Stoke, the FA Cup third round tie against Watford on Saturday and the league trip to Arsenal on January 13.

His absence will further hamper second placed City’s attempts to close the gap on Manchester United, who have opened up a seven-point lead at the top of the table.