The Premier League issued a statement during Arsenal’s clash with Wolves after Myles Lewis-Skelly received a controversial straight red card.
Arsenal were reduced to 10 men in Saturday’s match at Molineux after Lewis-Skelly, aged 18, became the third-youngest player in Premier League history to be shown a red card.
The incident, which has sparked widespread debate online, saw the young defender sent off for a late challenge on Matt Doherty, judged as serious foul play. Despite Doherty being deep in his own penalty area, referee Michael Oliver confidently made the call, which was later upheld by VAR.
Shortly after, the Premier League Match Centre released a statement on the decision:
“The referee’s decision to issue a red card to Lewis-Skelly was reviewed and confirmed by VAR, which deemed the challenge to constitute serious foul play.”
Fan reactions online were divided:
One fan wrote, “I don’t say this lightly, but that red card for Lewis-Skelly is the worst decision I’ve ever seen at a football stadium. I’m baffled how VAR cleared it. It’s the classic yellow card for cynically stopping a counter.”
Another added, “Oh my word. Lewis-Skelly sent off for a foul 90 yards from goal. That’s unbelievable.”
A third commented, “WHAT??? Lewis-Skelly gets a straight red for a tactical foul to stop a counter. This was the clearest yellow card offense ever. Once again, we’ve been done by a decision no one else would ever give.”
A fourth wrote, “That red card for Lewis-Skelly shows something isn’t right with these refs. A straight red for a mistimed challenge near their box? Never seen anything like it.”
A fifth added, “That red card is one of the worst refereeing calls you’ll ever see. Now their fans are going to be unbearable.”
What do you think of the decision? Was it a red card? Share your thoughts below.
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