Palace and Birmingham fought out a goalless draw but the match was a disaster for Carle as he was sent for an early shower in the 76th minute of the contest.

The referee took exception to what he viewed as a two-footed lunge by the former Newcastle Jet on Birmingham's Cameron Jerome and produced a straight red.

It leaves Carle facing at least a couple of weeks out of action, having only just returned to the squad after a one-match man.

Palace boss Neil Warnock was not impressed with the decision and felt Carle had been unfortunate. He told BBC Sport: "We don't think it was sending-off, we think he took the ball. But it was consistent with the ref's performance.

"It was a pity because I thought the lads did well tonight. I'd like to say what I feel - but I better not."