Manchester United won't appeal against a two-match ban handed down to captain Nemanja Vidic following his dismissal against Otelul Galati in last month's Champions League group match.
The Serbian was originally given a one-match ban for the straight red card following the foul on forward Gabriel Giurgiu.
However, UEFA have since increased the ban to two games, meaning the Serb will miss United's final group matches, starting with the visit of Benfica next Tuesday.
“I can understand the referee’s interpretation because German football is different to England,” Sir Alex Ferguson said after the decision.
The skipper has himself only played seven times this season, but his absence for the climax of United's group stage campaign could put the Old Trafford club's progress to the knock-out phase in jeopardy if further defensive injuries are suffered during this weekend's trip to Swansea City.
Ferguson's options at the back are already stretched, with Chris Smalling and Rafael both on the sidelines, while Rio Ferdinand's appearances have also been restricted due to injury.
United require victory over the two-time European Cup winners to progress to the last-16 and are likely to call upon the versatile Phil Jones to stand in for the 30-year-old centre-back.
Despite making 17 appearances for United already this season, Jones' appearances in the middle of defence have been rare, with Ferguson opting to utilise the 19-year-old's ability with the ball at full-back and in central midfield.
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