Jose Holebas available for Watford's FA Cup final against Manchester City

Posted Tuesday, May 14, 2019 by Skysports.com

Jose Holebas was adjudged to have brought down Michail Antonio as he broke forward in the second half at Vicarage Road

Watford defender Jose Holebas is available to face Manchester City in the FA Cup final after his red card against West Ham was rescinded.

The 34-year-old was adjudged to have tripped Michael Antonio as he broke forward in their final Premier League game of the season on Sunday.

Referee Chris Kavanagh appeared to only give Holebas a red card after the intervention of his assistant, but the FA has now confirmed the club have successfully overturned the decision.

"An Independent Regulatory Commission has today [13/05/2019] upheld a claim of wrongful dismissal regarding José Holebas.

"The Watford player was sent off against West Ham United in the Premier League on Sunday [12/05/2019] for denying an obvious goal scoring opportunity."

Watford were beaten 4-1 by West Ham, their third consecutive defeat, but Javi Gracia will now be able to select Holebas in the Wembley showpiece - the club's first major final since 1984.

Premier League champions City beat Watford home and away this season, and will complete the domestic treble if they win on Saturday.