Michael Oliver’s next match decided after Arsenal red card controversy

Michael Oliver has been at the heart of controversy after choosing to send Myles Lewis-Skelly off during Arsenal’s Premier League victory against Wolves and has now found it his next steps

It’s business as usual for Michael Oliver after being handed Champions League duty amid the ongoing Arsenal controversy.

The Premier League referee garnered severe criticism for his decision to send Myles Lewis-Skelly off during the Gunners’ win against Wolves. VAR revealed that the decision was due to the defender’s challenge on Matt Doherty reaching the threshold for ‘serious foul play’.

Oliver, 39, has since faced abuse and death threats on social media, with both the Premier League and the PGMOL releasing statements in the aftermath. A statement from the Premier League read: “The Premier League strongly condemns the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver/ No official should be subject to any form of abuse. We will continue to support Michael, PGMOL and all investigations.”

Meanwhile, the PGMOL said: “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.”

But despite the ongoing situation, Oliver is still scheduled to officiate over the next week. UEFA have announced that he will oversee Atalanta’s Champions League clash with Spanish giants Barcelona.

That game will take place on Wednesday evening, with Oliver set to be assisted by a number of his Premier League colleagues. Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring have been appointed as assistant referees, with Andrew Madley claiming the role as fourth official.

What was your take on Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card? Share your thoughts in the comments below

VAR will be manned by Jarred Gillett, with Darren England his assistant. As it stands, it has not been announced whether Oliver will oversee a Premier League game over the coming weekend.

But former Premier League referees’ chief Keith Hackett believes he should be dropped. Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “I’d be saying to Michael Oliver, I think you need a rest and I think you’re not going to see another game in the Premier League for a couple of weeks. That’s the first action.

“Ultimately, the referee takes responsibility. I admit, and I’m very clear, that VAR did not do what VAR should do. This was a clear and obvious error. It wasn’t serious foul play.”

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.