The Premier League has issued a strong condemnation of the threats and abuse directed at referee Michael Oliver following his decision to send off Myles Lewis-Skelly during Arsenal’s narrow 1-0 victory over Wolves on Saturday.
Oliver came under fire for showing a straight red card to the Arsenal teenager, who was adjudged to have committed “serious foul play” against Matt Doherty during a counter-attack. The decision has sparked widespread outrage, particularly among Arsenal fans, with intense backlash and threats against the official on social media.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Premier League expressed its support for Oliver and pledged to assist the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) and law enforcement authorities in ongoing investigations.
“The Premier League strongly condemns the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver,” the statement read. “No official should be subject to any form of abuse. We will continue to support Michael, PGMOL, and all investigations.”
The PGMOL also released a statement denouncing the harassment and confirmed that police are actively investigating the matter.
Lewis-Skelly’s controversial red card, which was reportedly issued for “serious foul play,” has fueled heated debates among fans and pundits about the consistency of officiating in the Premier League.
This incident adds to the ongoing discourse around the treatment of match officials and the need for stronger measures to protect referees from abuse.
