The English Football Association has made a decision regarding Michael Oliver following Arne Slot’s extended ban.
Liverpool will resume Premier League action on Wednesday night as they host Newcastle United at Anfield in an exciting matchup. However, Slot will not be on the touchline after receiving a two-match suspension for ‘confronting’ Oliver after Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Everton.
Slot’s assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, has also been handed a two-match ban, leaving Johnny Heitinga likely to take charge against Newcastle and Southampton.
Before Slot’s suspension was confirmed, Oliver was assigned to officiate this weekend’s FA Cup match between Crystal Palace and Millwall. He will be assisted by James Mainwaring and Steven Meredith, with Nick Hopton as VAR, Mark Scholes as assistant VAR, and Michael Salisbury providing additional VAR support.
The FA, responsible for appointing referees for this weekend’s fifth-round FA Cup fixtures, has also assigned Simon Hooper as the fourth official.
Regarding the bans on Slot and Hulshoff, an official statement explained:
“An independent Regulatory Commission has sanctioned Everton, Liverpool, Arne Slot, and Sipke Hulshoff concerning the Premier League fixture between the clubs on Wednesday, February 12.
“It was alleged that both clubs failed to ensure their players and technical staff behaved appropriately after the final whistle. Additionally, Liverpool’s head coach was accused of acting improperly and using insulting and/or abusive language towards the match referee and an assistant referee. Arne Slot admitted to the charge, resulting in a two-match touchline ban and a £70,000 fine. Sipke Hulshoff also admitted to the charge and received a two-match touchline ban along with a £7,000 fine.”
Both Slot and Hulshoff will return to the touchline for Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final against Newcastle United at Wembley on March 16.