Threats to referee Michael Oliver prompt police investigation in UK after Arsenal game

PGMOL condemns threats against referee Michael Oliver after red card decision in Arsenal's win over Wolves.

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has condemned "threats and abuse" directed at referee Michael Oliver following his decision to send off Myles Lewis-Skelly during Arsenal’s 1-0 win against Wolves on Saturday.

UK police are now investigating the incident.

The full statement was released by the PGMOL on Sunday on X (formerly Twitter).

Michael Oliver issued a red card to Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly in the 43rd minute after the defender caught Matt Doherty above the ankle to halt a Wolves counter-attack. The decision was upheld by VAR official Darren England.

It was widely criticised by pundits, with many agreeing the decision was wrong.

Arsenal fans were very critical of the decision after Saturday's match, with many taking to social media to express their concern about Oliver's supposed 'bias' against their team.

In response to the abuse aimed at Oliver and his family in the aftermath of the match, PGMOL released a statement expressing their shock.

“No official should be subject to any form of abuse,” the statement read. Investigations into the threats have been launched, and the referees' body reiterated their commitment to addressing this behaviour.

The Premier League also condemned the abuse, reaffirming their full support for Oliver and PGMOL.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta voiced his disagreement with the red card decision, calling it “so obvious” and sparking further criticism from pundits and former officials.

Oliver also dismissed Wolves’ Joao Gomes in the second half, before Riccardo Calafiori scored the only goal of the match to secure Arsenal’s victory.

PGMOL stressed that this is not the first instance of officials being subjected to threats, highlighting the need for ongoing support and investigation.