CHELSEA are to appeal the red card shown to Nemanja Matic for his reaction to the collision with Ashley Barnes in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Burnley.

Matic reacted furiously, shoving Barnes to the floor, after the Burnley striker had caught the Serbian midfielder with his outstretched leg when he had tried to block Barnes' pass.

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Referee Martin Atkinson didn't give a free kick against Barnes, but showed Matic the red card for his reaction.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has since labelled Barnes' tackle as 'criminal' and has called for him to be banned for six games, although Burnley are still waiting to hear if he will be charged by the FA.

The Blues have until 1pm tomorrow to submit evidence for the appeal to Matic, who is currently due to miss three games, including next weekend's League Cup final against Tottenham at Wembley.