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Essien, on as a second half substitute, was sent off after apparently elbowing Kenny Miller in stoppage time. Any hopes the Ghanaian midfielder had in overturning the decision have been dashed, with an automatic three-match ban coming into place with immediate effect.

The midfielder will now miss December's clash against top-of-the-table Arsenal at the Emirates stadium.

In the wake of Essien's dismissal, irate Chelsea players - including captain John Terry - confronted referee Andre Marriner, angering the FA.

A Football Association statement read: "Chelsea FC have been charged for the behaviour of Chelsea players towards referee Andre Marriner during the match at Derby County on Saturday, 24 November.

"The club were charged with failing to ensure that its players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion following the sending-off of Michael Essien for violent conduct, and have until 12 December to respond.

"At a Regulatory Commission hearing today, Essien had a claim for wrongful dismissal rejected.

"He will therefore serve a three-match suspension with immediate effect."

Eurosport