Arsenal have been charged by the Football Association over the protests that ensued after Michael Oliver dismissed Myles Lewis-Skelly against Wolves.
In what was a surprising move, Oliver produced a red card after Lewis-Skelly challenged Matt Doherty on the edge of Wolves’ penalty area. After various outcry from fans and pundits, the sending-off has been rescinded and the 18-year-old has had a three-match ban overturned.
However, Arsenal now face an FA charge over their players surrounding Oliver in the aftermath of the decision. The London club are accused of failing to ensure that their players did not behave in an improper manner in the 43rd minute of the game.
Players of Arsenal protest to Referee Michael Oliver after Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
“Arsenal FC has been charged after its players surrounded a match official during their Premier League fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers FC on Saturday, 25 January,” an FA spokesperson said.
“The club allegedly failed to ensure that its players did not behave in an improper manner around the 43rd minute. Arsenal FC has until Monday, 3 February, to provide a response.”
Oliver who officiated the match has been subjected to a torrent of abuse and threats on and off social media.
According to The Times, the 39-year-old’s home is under police protection due to concerns for the safety of the official, his wife and young daughter.
Oliver returned to action on Wednesday night, overseeing Barcelona’s 2-2 draw with Atalanta in the Champions League. He is scheduled to referee Ipswich’s crunch Premier League clash with Southampton on Saturday.
