Darron Gibson is available to play in Everton’s Boxing Day match with Wigan, after the Toffees decided to appeal against the midfielder’s sending off on Saturday.

The Republic of Ireland international was shown a straight red card for a high tackle towards the end of his side’s 2-1 victory over West Ham, with replays showing it was a harsh decision.

Referee Anthony Taylor had already given West Ham striker Carlton Cole his marching orders earlier in the Premier League game for a similar offence.

Everton needed to submit the paperwork to the Football Association by 1pm today and the appeal means Gibson will be able to play on Boxing Day, before his case is heard on 27 December.

"The Blues will submit the paperwork on Christmas Eve and due to the FA protocol it does mean that Gibson will be able to participate in the Boxing Day clash with Wigan Athletic,” read a statement released on the club's official website.

"Everton's case will be heard on Thursday 27 December and expect to hear the outcome of the appeal later this week."

David Moyes bemoaned the performance of the match officials after his side’s victory, and the Scot is fully behind an appeal, believing both players have a good case for their bans to be overturned.

"I don't think you can put the word 'frivolous' next to this,” the Everton boss told BBC Sport.

“It's worth the appeal and it's not a stupid appeal.

"I thought it was a case of two players honestly going for the ball."

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