Football in Brief: Wenger appeals Koscielny red card

Arsenal have begun their attempt to overturn the sending-off of the central defender Laurent Koscielny. The 25-year-old was dismissed late in Arsenal's 1-0 defeat by Newcastle after he fouled Nile Ranger near the touchline. The FA said: "Arsenal FC have today submitted a claim of wrongful dismissal, following the dismissal of Laurent Koscielny for the denial of an obvious goal-scoring opportunity."

The claim will be heard by an independent regulatory commission today. If Arsenal lose the appeal Koscielny will be suspended for the Gunners' trip to Wolves tomorrow and their visit to Everton on Sunday as he has already been sent off this season. If the appeal is successful he will be free to play tomorrow. "It was not only harsh, but not right," said Arsène Wenger of the decision.

SPL criticises fans' anti-poppy banner

The display of a giant anti-poppy banner by a group of Celtic fans at Parkhead this weekend has been called "regrettable" by Scottish Premier League chief executive Neil Doncaster.

A section of fans unfurled a banner during the win over Aberdeen which read: "Your deeds would shame all the devils in Hell. Ireland, Iraq, Afghanistan. No bloodstained poppy on our Hoops."

Doncaster said the SPL was investigating this incident. He said: "It's clearly regrettable that a weekend of so much excitement on the pitch has been dominated by events off the pitch." Celtic have already apologised for any offence caused and said they had begun an investigation into the incident.

Davids quits after just seven games

Former Netherlands international Edgar Davids has left Crystal Palace by mutual consent after less than three months at the club. The 37-year-old signed for Palace on a pay-as-you-play deal in August but had been limited to just seven appearances before leaving the club yesterday.

Davids revealed on his official website: "I have decided that my journey as a player at Crystal Palace has come to an end. I want to thank all the people who supported me and gave me one of the greatest experiences of my life."

A statement on Palace's official website said: "The club would like to thank Edgar for his time at Palace and wish him all the best of luck for the future."