Spain's top sports court has dismissed Real Madrid's appeal against their exclusion from the Copa del Rey for fielding an ineligible player.

The Administrative Court of Sport (TAD) said on Monday it has "analysed the all the parties' arguments" and ruled to "dismiss Real Madrid's appeal" for fielding an "improper lineup."

Madrid were expelled from the competition for fielding Denis Cheryshev in the first-leg 3-1 win over Cadiz on Dec. 2 in the opening round.

According to AS, Real had argued that they had not been given written notice of Cheryshev's suspension by the Spanish federation (RFEF), as per Article 41 of the federation's disciplinary code.

The club published a statement soon after the decision was announced which reads: "The club respects but does not agree with the Court's ruling and as such announces its decision to pursue a judicial-administrative course of action, along with other possible legal options, which are currently being studied."

Any successful civil case would realistically result in claiming compensation, as re-admission to the competition is extremely unlikely.

Cheryshev was carrying a one-match suspension for accumulation of yellow cards from last season during a loan spell at Villarreal.

Madrid did not realise until half-time of the match against Cadiz that the suspension existed, and immediately substituted the Russian forward.

Cadiz have been drawn to play Celta Vigo in the round of 16, with the tie scheduled to be played in January.

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