Devastated Jabo Ibehre is hoping “justice will prevail” and that his red card at Hartlepool United will be overturned.

The Colchester United striker admitted he was “flabbergasted” to be shown the red card against Pools, after referee Geoff Eltringham deemed his challenge on Neil Austin as serious foul play.

Ibehre was given his marching orders for only the second time in his professional career, in the closing stages of the first half of the 0-0 draw at Victoria Park.

The 30-year-old now faces a three-match ban but Colchester are appealing the decision and Ibehre is hoping his red card will be rescinded.

Ibehre said: “I thought it was really harsh and I thought that the referee got it wrong, to be honest.

“The ball was there to be won and I went in with a regular tackle.

“I got the ball and I was as shocked as everyone else was when the referee showed me the red card.

“The referee didn’t hesitate in bringing out the card but it was very, very disappointing."

See Thursday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including Duguid's Diary.