Jermaine Jenas has had the red card he received at Arsenal yesterday downgraded to a yellow after match referee Steve Bennett reviewed his controversial decision.
The Kent official dismissed the 22-year-old for a robust tackle on Gilberto 32 minutes into the game.
He justified his actions on the grounds of excessive force, although television replays showed that the England international had made significant contact with the ball and only caught the Brazilian as his trailing leg followed through.
"Steve Bennett has been in touch via letter with manager Graeme Souness, Jermaine Jenas and the rest of the squad to apologise for his error of judgement during Sunday's game against Arsenal," said a statement released through
Newcastle's official website.
"He has requested that the Football Association downgrade the dismissal to a yellow card and this has been confirmed by the FA."
