WADE Elliot will serve his three-match ban for being dismissed against Swindon Town last weekend after Bristol City's appeal against the decision was turned down.

The midfielder appeared to headbutt Jack Stephens after a tussle less than a minute into Town's 1-0 win and was sent off by referee Darren Drysdale following consultation with his assistant.

The decision to uphold the City captain's ban was made because there was a lack of clear video evidence to overturn the original decision. City boss Steve Cotterill has remained firm in his belief that Elliot is innocent but the lack of video evidence has not provided the opportunity to clear his name.

“This decision does not support the implication of guilt, more that the video evidence available to us was not conducive for the panel to be able to overturn the referee’s decision," said Cotterill. 

“It’s hugely frustrating and unjust that Wade will now serve a three-match ban. Understandably he’s disappointed, an emotion I’m sure everyone associated with the club concurs with.”