Tim Cahill will miss Everton's opening three games next season after the Football Association upheld his final day sending off.
The Australian was given his marching orders during Sunday's curtain call against Newcastle United at Goodison Park following an altercation with Yohan Cabaye in stoppage time of the Blues' 3-1 win.
Cabaye later issued an apology to Cahill for the exchange which led to the attacker's dismissal.
He said: "I would like to apologise for the cross words I exchanged with Tim Cahill which resulted in his red card and my booking on the final whistle.
"It was unnecessary and, regrettably, the result of frustration and disappointment, all in the heat of the moment.
"It is out of character and for that I am sorry."
But referee Andre Marriner's decision has been upheld by Wembley chiefs following Everton's appeal against the suspension, which will take effect at the start of the 2012/13 Premier League campaign.
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