As usual, it is for Michael Oliver after he has handed Champions League obligation in the midst of the constant controversy of Arsenal.
The Premier League referee received serious criticism of his decision to send Myles Lewis-Skelly during the victory of the Gunners against Wolves. VAR revealed that the decision was due to the challenge of the defender on Matt Doherty who reached the threshold for 'serious fault game'.
Oliver, 39, has since had to deal with abuse and death threats on social media, where both the Premier League and the PGMOL release statements in the aftermath. A statement from the Premier League was: “The Premier League strongly condemns the threats and abuse aimed at Michael Oliver/ No Official must be subject to any form of abuse. We will continue to support Michael, PGMOL and all studies.”
In the meantime, the PGMOL said: “We are shocked by the threats and abuse aimed at Michael Oliver after the Wolverhampton Wanderers against Arsenal competitions. No civil servant may be subject to any form of abuse, let alone the repulsive attacks aimed at Michael and His family over the last 24 hours.
“The police are aware, and a number of investigations have begun. We support Michael, and all those who have been affected and determined to tackle this unacceptable behavior. Unfortunately, this is not the first time that a competition officer is forced to get along to We will continue to support all the investigations in recent times.
But despite the constant situation, Oliver is still planned to officially officize the following week. UEFA has announced that he supervises the Champions League collision of Atalanta with the Spanish giant Barcelona.
That competition will take place on Wednesday evening, with Oliver that is 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 officer.
VAR is manned by Jarred Gillett, with Darren England his assistant. As it looks now, it has not been announced whether Oliver will supervise a Premier League match next weekend.
But former Premier League referees' Chief Keith Hackett believes that he should be fallen. Speaking at Talksport, he said: “I would say to Michael Oliver, I think you need rest and I think you will not see any other competition in the Premier League for a few weeks. That is the first action.
“Ultimately, the referee takes responsibility. I admit, and I am very clear that VAR did not do what VAR should do. This was a clear and obvious mistake. It wasn't a serious false game. “
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