How Middlesbrough could see Paddy McNair's suspension overturned

Boro were reduced to nine men during Saturday’s 3-1 defeat at the Liberty Stadium, after Marcus Browne was also dismissed for a reckless challenge on Mike van der Hoorn.

The winger will now serve a three-game ban and miss games against Stoke, Huddersfield and West Brom over the festive period.

McNair is set to serve the same punishment after he was sent off for appearing to elbow Swansea’s Matt Grimes, yet Boro boss Jonathan Woodgate said the club would appeal the decision.

Here's exactly what happens in the process:

When do Boro need to appeal the red card by?

The Teessiders have until 1pm on Tuesday to appeal McNair’s red card.

That means Boro will have to gather their evidence by this afternoon to submit an appeal.

The club will also have to pay for the appeal which won’t be refunded if they are unsuccessful.

What evidence can Boro submit?

Clubs can submit written evidence and footage of the incident on DVD.

Neither the player or the referee can attend the meeting to provide evidence.

Who makes the decision on whether to overturn the red card?

The appeal is heard by an Independent Regulatory Commission which is put together by the FA.

This panel consists of three individuals who are not associated with the FA.

What do the panel consider when making a decision?

The commission will decide if there was an 'obvious error' by the official to see if the red card can be overturned.

This naturally sets a high precedent which is why many appeals are unsuccessful.

Can the ban be extended?

Yes - if the panel decide to uphold the ban they can also add matches on to the suspension.

This scenario rarely occurs though.

When will a decision be made?

The commission tend to meet on a Thursday, yet that may be brought forward given Boro are set to host Stoke on Friday night.

A decision should be made before then, with Jonathan Woodgate’s side preparing for a crucial game at the Riverside.