Premier League issue fresh Michael Oliver statement as investigation launched
The Premier League have issued a statement “strongly condemning” abuse aimed at referee Michael Oliver after his decision to send off Myles Lewis-Skelly during Arsenal’s 1-0 win at Wolves, with the PGMOL and police opening an investigation.
Lewis-Skelly was dismissed after catching Wolves star Matt Doherty during a counter-attack, with the decision appearing harsh and leading to outcry from Arsenal fans on social media.
Officials later confirmed he was sent off due to “serious foul play”, with ex-referee Mike Dean claiming the 18-year-old had caught Doherty with his studs down the back of his leg.
Oliver has been sent threats and abuse since the incident and the Premier League have come out with a statement to condemn any abuse.
“The Premier League strongly condemns the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver,” it said. “No official should be subject to any form of abuse. We will continue to support Michael, PGMOL and all investigations.”
The PGMOL also sent out a message deploring the abuse suffered by Oliver as they confirmed police were looking into the reports. Their own statement read: “We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal fixture.
“No official should be subject to any form of abuse, let alone the abhorrent attacks aimed at Michael and his family over the past 24 hours.
“The police are aware, and a number of investigations have commenced. We are supporting Michael, and all those affected, and are determined to tackle this unacceptable behaviour. Sadly, this is not the first time a match official has been forced to deal with threats in recent times. We will continue to support all investigations.”
Arsenal players were seething after Oliver’s decision at Molineux as they surrounded the official – and even though they ended up winning the game, Mikel Arteta said he was “absolutely fuming”.
“It is that clear that I leave it to you guys,” Arteta told Sky Sports. “I am absolutely fuming but I leave it with you. Because it is that obvious. I don’t think my words are going to help.”
When asked about a potential appeal, he said: “That’s for the club to decide what the best decision is. I think it’s that obvious, maybe we don’t even need to. [Lewis-Skelly] is really happy now that the team won and we found a way to win it.”