Exclusive: Arsenal appeal verdict emerges after Arteta rages at Michael Oliver
Keith Hackett has given his verdict on an Arsenal appeal after Mikel Arteta expressed his fury at the red card decision against Myles Lewis-Skelly against Wolves.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former PGMOL chief, ex-FIFA, and Premier League referee Keith Hackett has stated that Myles Lewis-Skelly’s challenge against Wolves was only “worthy of a yellow card” and backed the club to dispute the call.
The incident occurred in the 43rd minute after an Arsenal corner was defended. Matt Doherty picked up the ball and was preparing to launch a counterattack when Lewis-Skelly tripped the defender to halt the break.
Referee Michael Oliver, standing close to the incident, issued a red card to the 18-year-old despite protests from Arsenal players and significant backlash online. Hackett has since reiterated that Oliver’s decision was “wrong” in this case.
Arteta was said he was “fuming” in his post-match interview when asked about the decision. He said: “I’m absolutely fuming. But I’ll leave it with you because it’s that obvious that I don’t think my words are going to help” [Sky Sports via X].
When questioned about the possibility of appealing the decision, Arteta added: “That’s for the club to decide what is the best decision. Maybe it’s that obvious maybe we don’t even need to.”
Keith Hackett believes Arsenal must appeal Michael Oliver’s decision
Lewis-Skelly has been a crucial player for Arsenal this season, especially in light of injuries to Riccardo Calafiori.
The 18-year-old has already made 20 appearances for the club while filling in at left-back, despite progressing as a central midfielder in Arsenal’s academy.
The Gunners’ other defensive options remain limited, with Oleksandr Zinchenko linked to a move to Borussia Dortmund and Kieran Tierney reportedly close to re-signing for Celtic.
If the red card is upheld, Lewis-Skelly will miss Arsenal’s next three games, including key clashes against Manchester City and Newcastle in the Carabao Cup.
However, Hackett has urged the club to appeal the decision. Speaking to Football Insider, he said:
“It was a very poor red card. It was a reckless challenge worthy of a yellow.
“He should appeal.”
The win over Wolves keeps Arsenal in second place, six points behind league leaders Liverpool. Arteta will hope his side can maintain their momentum, especially with their squad stretched thin by injuries and suspensions.
In other news, Nottingham Forest are battling Arsenal for one of their transfer targets this January transfer window.
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