Referee Michael Oliver has not been assigned to officiate a Premier League match this weekend following controversy over his handling of an FA Cup fixture.
Oliver last took charge of the fifth-round clash between Crystal Palace and Millwall, where he came under scrutiny for his decision-making. During the match, Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta was kicked in the head, suffering a serious injury. However, Oliver initially allowed play to continue without stopping the game.
It was only after a VAR review that Oliver issued a straight red card to Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts.
Mateta had to be stretchered off after receiving extensive medical attention. The 27-year-old was later diagnosed with a severe head injury and required specialist care. He received 25 stitches to his left ear at St George’s Hospital.
Former Premier League referee and PGMOL chief Keith Hackett strongly criticized Oliver’s handling of the situation.
“What an appalling challenge, and I have to ask—why did one of the world’s top referees fail to immediately show a red card? It is, frankly, an absolute no-brainer,” Hackett remarked.
