admin
ENGLAND Police are investigating threats and abuse aimed at referee Michael Oliver, the PGMOL has announced.
During Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Wolves on Saturday, Oliver controversially sent-off Myles Lewis-Skelly for a challenge on Matt Doherty.
Afterwards the PGMOL’s match centre confirmed on X that the challenge had been deemed as ‘serious foul play’, which was checked by the VAR Darren England.
The decision led to widespread backlash, with Mikel Arteta saying he was ‘fuming’ over the call and that Arsenal will be appealing it.
The PGMOL on Sunday released a statement condemning threats that have since been sent to Oliver.
The statement read: ‘We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers vs 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.’
It is not the first time police have been called in to investigate abuse in relation to the 39-year-old.
In April 2018, police investigated threatening messages sent to Oliver’s wife Lucy after her phone number was posted on social media.
On that occasion, Oliver had awarded a last-minute penalty as Real Madrid knocked Juventus out of the Champions League. (www.dailymail.co.uk)
Online Reporter