Martinez confirms Mirallas to miss Merseyside derby

Roberto Martinez has confirmed Everton will not appeal Kevin Mirallas' sending off against Swansea, meaning the Belgium international will miss the club's next three matches.

Mirallas lasted 136 seconds at the Liberty Stadium after coming on as a substitute in stoppage time. His challenge on Modou Barrow wasn't malicious, but he did go in with his studs showing.

That means any appeal would likely be rejected as by the letter of the law, any over-the-top challenge is deemed a red card offence.

With his three match ban confirmed Mirallas, who has cut a frustrated figure on the bench in recent weeks, will not be able to play until next month.

As well as Tuesday's League Cup tie at Reading, Mirallas will also miss next week's trip to West Brom and the Merseyside derby against Liverpool on October 4.

Speaking about any potential appeal, Martinez defended Mirallas' tackle but conceded any appeal would almost certainly be rejected.

"We were really disappointed with the decision. The truth was it was his first challenge, his first action in the game, and it looks worse than it actually is.

"Kevin is never looking at the opposing player and there is never any intent."

"It’s a harsh red card. [But] from that, to be able to appeal and get the decision overturned is difficult. I don’t think we have a chance to do that. I just feel the red card was very harsh.

"Understanding how the system works, I don’t think we have got a chance to get it overturned so we need to feel hurt with the decision and support Kevin.

"He was just over-keen to win the ball and nothing else. It wasn’t reckless or dangerous."