SOUTHEND United midfielder Timothee Dieng has been handed a two match ban for ‘misleading a referee.’

Dieng won a penalty for the Shrimpers at Scunthorpe United on Saturday after being pushed over by the home-side’s skipper Jordan Clarke who was sent off for his actions.

But, after Scunthorpe successfully appealed against the red card, Dieng has now been punished for his part in the dismissal.

However, Blues boss Mark Molesley confirmed the club would be appealing against the decision.

“When they downgraded the red card they’re now trying to get Tim, but what did he do wrong?” said Molesley.

“He got pushed in the chest and we will 100 per cent appeal.

“It’s ridiculous and I can’t believe it.

“We can ill afford players at this stage of the season, especially when they’re not doing anything wrong.”

Dieng is now due to miss Saturday’s trip to Harrogate Town and a home match with Carlisle United the following weekend.

But Molesley feels Dieng hit his head when he fell to the floor.

“Tim got pushed to the floor and hit his head which already had a big bandage on it,” said Molesley.

“He got pushed to the chest and that should be a yellow card to their player and a penalty.

“That card has been rescinded because he didn’t push him in the face, it was his chest.

“But now Tim is facing a two game ban for misleading the ref.

“Apparently when he was on the floor he held his head.

“But if you had a bandage on with dust all in your face after you’ve been pushed over then I don’t know what you’re meant to do.

“It’s come out of the blue but there’s a panel apparently.”

An FA spokesperson said: "Southend United's Timothee Dieng has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3 following their EFL League Two fixture against Scunthorpe United on Saturday.

"It is alleged that the midfielder committed a clear act of simulation during the 78th minute of the fixture, which led to the dismissal of an opposing player, and his behaviour amounts to improper conduct.

"Timothee Dieng has until the end of day today (24/03/2021) to provide a response to this charge."