Middlesbrough will not appeal the red card issued to striker Mido in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Arsenal.
The Egypt international was shown red soon after coming on as a substitute at Emirates Stadium when his boot appeared to make contact with Gael Clichy's head as both men attempted to win possession.
Boro boss Gareth Southgate believes his player made an honest attempt to win the ball but has decided against lodging an appeal after consulting referee Mark Halsey and referee's chief Keith Hackett.
Southgate saw Saturday's goalscorer Jeremie Aliadiere punished with an additional one-match ban for a "frivolous" appeal after his sending off against Liverpool last month was queried by the Teessiders.
He told the club's official website: 'Having spoken to the referee's chief and to the referee himself, their feeling is that the decision wouldn't be altered.
'Whether or not there is intent is no longer considered, it's about whether a challenge puts the opponent in danger.
'At no time has anybody suggested Mido intended to do what he did, but unfortunately it is perceived as dangerous play because he caught the lad.'
Southgate concedes he is frustrated by the situation but accepts the letter of the law.
'We're not very happy about it but I can see why the referee has sent the lad off under those rules. But a three-match ban is very harsh.'
