LONDON - Cesc Fabregas will be available for the start of Chelsea's defence of the Premier League title next season after having a three-match ban reduced to one game following an appeal.

Fabregas was sent off against West Bromwich Albion on Monday for kicking the ball at an opponent's head during a break in play.

Chelsea launched an appeal, saying that a three-game ban was excessive, and it was upheld on Wednesday.

Fabregas will serve his one-game suspension against Sunderland on Sunday in the final round of the Premier League.