Liverpool accept Cole decision

(17-08-2010) Liverpool have decided to accept Joe Cole’s red card in their season opener against Arsenal. The England international was given his marching orders by referee Martin Atkinson for a two-footed challenge on Laurent Koscielny. He will now miss the Reds’ matches against Manchester City, West Brom and Birmingham, but will be allowed to play in the Europa League. Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson did however feel that the verdict was harsh. "We now have the benefit of replays on the TV and those replays suggest to me he was a little bit unlucky." Importantly, Cole will be available for Liverpool clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford on 19 September.