Styles' crazy decision overturned

Last updated : 29 January 2009 By Wba-mad Editor

Albion have been given a welcome defensive boost ahead of their trip to Hull with the news that Paul Robinson will be available for selection.

The feisty left-back looked set to sit out the next three games after being harshly sent off against Manchester United by Rob Styles in the 40th minute on Tuesday night.

However after the club appealed the decision to the FA, a disciplinary panel overturned Styles' decision to award a straight red-card for violent conduct.

"We're obviously delighted," Tony Mowbray said after the decision was announced.

"It's a boost for everyone, particularly at this moment when we've lost our captain Jonathan Greening through injury.

"To lose our vice-captain as well would have been a big loss in terms of the character of the team.

"It's important we have leaders out there, personalities like his.

"Paul's a whole-hearted player.

"I see him tackling his own team-mates like he did Ji-Sung Park on Tuesday every day in training.

"I sat in the dressing room after the game and watched the incident on the laptop.

"I couldn't see a sending-off, so I think it was right we appealed and I'm delighted it's been upheld."