The PGMOL has released a statement confirming an investigation into Michael Oliver’s decision to send off Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly during their match against Wolves. Lewis-Skelly was shown a controversial straight red card for a tackle on Matt Doherty late in the first half. VAR supported the decision, with the Premier League Match Centre stating it was deemed “serious foul play.”
Despite Arsenal securing a win through a Riccardo Calafiori goal, the incident sparked significant debate online. On Sunday evening, the PGMOL revealed that referee Michael Oliver had received threats and abuse from fans following the match. The police have launched investigations into what the PGMOL described as “abhorrent attacks” against Oliver and his family.
The statement from the PGMOL condemned the behavior, emphasizing that no official should face such abuse. They pledged full support for Oliver and ongoing investigations, noting that this is not an isolated incident.
Lewis-Skelly, a rising star for Arsenal, now faces a three-game suspension, ruling him out of key fixtures against Manchester City and Newcastle United. However, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hinted that the club might appeal the red card decision. Speaking to Sky Sports, Arteta expressed his frustration, stating, “It’s that obvious, I don’t think my words are going to help,” and hoping for a fair outcome for both the player and the team.