Arsenal have been charged by the Football Association (FA) following the behavior of their players after Myles Lewis-Skelly’s controversial red card against Wolves.
The 18-year-old was sent off by referee Michael Oliver for a challenge on Wolves right-back Matt Doherty.
Lewis-Skelly made contact with Doherty’s calf and ankle with his studs, prompting Oliver to deem it “serious foul play.”
Though the red card has since been overturned, Arsenal’s actions following the decision are under investigation.
A number of Arsenal players, including England international Declan Rice, surrounded Oliver and angrily shouted in his face.
Defender Jurrien Timber was also shown a yellow card for his protests, while the Gunners went on to secure a 1-0 victory in the Premier League match, with substitute Riccardo Calafiori scoring the decisive goal in the second half.
Arsenal have until Monday, February 3 to appeal the charge.
“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.”
Since the incident, referee Michael Oliver and his family have been subjected to vile abuse, including death threats.
Oliver, regarded as one of the Premier League’s top officials, had his decision upheld by Darren England, the video assistant referee (VAR) for the game at Molineux.
“We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal fixture,” a statement from the PGMOL – the body in charge of Premier League officials – read.
“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 police are aware, and a number of investigations have commenced.
“We are supporting Michael, and all those affected, and are determined to tackle this unacceptable behaviour.
“Sadly, this is not the first time a match official has been forced to deal with threats in recent times.
“We will continue to support all investigations.”
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