The FA has rescinded two red cards from the weekend's games after appeal.

Aston Villa's goalkeeper, Brad Friedel, was sent off after 63 minutes of the 5–0 drubbing at Anfield after he was adjudged to have brought down Fernando Torres when the striker burst through on goal. But Villa's appeal was upheld, meaning Friedel will be available for their next Premier League game at Manchester United on 5 April.

The news is a boost for Martin O'Neill, who has seen his side's bid to finish in a Champions League place falter in recent weeks. They are currently fifth, three points behind fourth-placed Arsenal.

Sunderland were also successful in appealing against George McCartney's red card. The Northern Ireland full-back was sent off after just 15 minutes at Eastlands, with the referee Steve Tanner, after consultation with his assistant Mo Matadar, adjudging McCartney to have pulled back Shaun Wright-Phillips when the City winger burst through on goal. Contact appeared minimal, prompting the Wearsiders to launch an appeal.

Had the dismissal been upheld, McCartney would have missed out on a return to his former club West Ham United, but he will now be free to play at Upton Park on 4 April.