Jude Bellingham loses red card appeal for 'f*ck you' comment to referee as La Liga confirm Real Madrid star's punishment

In the eyes of the appeals committee, Real Madrid's attempt to argue that Bellingham was expressing frustration with himself rather than insulting the referee who brandished the red card was "not relevant" as it could not be proven. It means the two-match La Liga ban originally issued stands.

Bellingham stood accused of using insulting language towards a match official, dismissed by Jose Munuera Montero in last weekend's frustrating draw with Osasuna. The referee noted in his match report that the England international had aimed a "f*ck you" at him. Bellingham insisted that wasn't the case, although he did avoid a potentially much harsher suspension of up to 12 games. It means he will have to sit out upcoming legaue fixtures against Girona and Real Betis over the next nine days.

In between the two La Liga games Bellingham will miss, he can face Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg on Wednesday night. Real Madrid are aiming to win the trophy for just the second time since 2014.

Bellingham will actually miss three of Reals next four games due to picking up another suspension. A yellow card against Manchester City in midweek triggered a one-game Champions League ban due to an accumulation of bookings in Europe this season. It means he will sit out the first leg of the last 16 tie against city rivals Atletico at the Bernabeu on March 4.