Police are investigating a series of threats and abusive messages aimed at Premier League referee Michael Oliver following his controversial decision to show a red card to Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly during their 1-0 victory over Wolves on Saturday.
The incident has sparked outrage among Arsenal supporters and left the referee and his family facing online attacks.
The red card was issued after Lewis-Skelly made a reckless challenge on Matt Doherty. Despite the backlash, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) confirmed that the decision was reviewed by VAR Darren England and deemed to be ‘serious foul play.’
However, the decision quickly ignited a wave of criticism, with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressing his frustration, saying he was “fuming” over the call.
The club announced plans to appeal the decision, which only added fuel to the fire on social media.
In response to the abusive messages, the PGMOL issued a statement condemning the online attacks.

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The statement emphasized that no official should have to endure any form of abuse, let alone the “abhorrent” threats directed at Oliver and his family in the wake of the match.
“We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Arsenal fixture,” the PGMOL said.
“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 PGMOL confirmed that the police are aware of the situation, and investigations are already underway.
“We are supporting Michael, and all those affected, and are determined to tackle this unacceptable behavior,” the statement concluded.
The incident serves as a reminder of the intense scrutiny referees face in professional football, and the need to maintain respect for officials at all levels of the game.