An independent FA panel has delivered their final decision regarding Arsenal’s appeal against Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card in their 1-0 victory over Wolves on Saturday.
In the first half, Lewis-Skelly received a straight red card for serious foul play on Wolves defender Matt Doherty.
Referee Michael Oliver made the call on the pitch after the incident, which happened about 10 yards from Wolves’ penalty area. ..Continue Reading
The incident underwent a review by VAR official Darren England, who, after watching several replays, did not advise Oliver to alter his decision.
Arsenal submitted their appeal before the Tuesday 12pm deadline, and the independent FA panel has now reviewed the case.
The panel has decided to accept Arsenal’s appeal and has thus overturned Lewis-Skelly’s three-match suspension, allowing him to participate in the Gunners’ forthcoming domestic matches.
An FA statement reads: “An Independent Regulatory Commission has upheld a claim of wrongful dismissal in relation to Myles Lewis-Skelly and removed his three-match suspension.
“The Arsenal player was sent off for serious foul play during their Premier League fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, January 25th.”
The PGMOL disclosed that Michael Oliver received threats and abuse following the Saturday match, with Oliver Holt of the Daily Mail reporting that these threats escalated to death threats against the 39-year-old referee and his family.
It was noted that several police officers visited his home on Sunday as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of Oliver and his family.
Numerous former players, pundits, and manager Mikel Arteta criticized the decision to send off Lewis-Skelly.
He told reporters: “I am absolutely fuming because it is that obvious, I don’t think my words are going to help.
“It is that clear that I will leave it to you, and hopefully the right thing will happen after today.
“I think it’s that obvious, maybe we don’t even need to [appeal].”
