Lee Bowyer will have to watch Birmingham City v Reading from the sidelines

Apr 29 2009 By Colin Tattums

"Lee said 'I didn't butt him'. Which is why, quite rightly contested that. Nobody said about all the pulling and the handbags at dawn scenario.

"We put forward our reasons in the form of statements and DVD evidence.

“However, it seems the FA have said it was for a wider range of things, including the tussle, and our appeal was rejected.

“We are disappointed with the decision but are grateful to the FA for hearing the appeal and now have to get on with things despite losing the services of a key member of our squad.

"It's a blow, but can we still get back to the Premier League without Lee? Yes, we can. We have got to believe that."

Preston's appeal on behalf of Williamson was also thrown out.