Exclusive: Howard Webb reaction after Michael Oliver Arsenal call overturned
Howard Webb now needs to “reflect” on why he backed Michael Oliver’s decision to give Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly a red card against Wolves.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former PGMOL chief, ex-FIFA, and Premier League referee reiterated his view that the foul was “not Serious Foul Play”.
The incident took place just before half-time as Wolves defended an Arsenal corner. After Matt Doherty picked up the ball to initiate a counter-attack, Lewis-Skelly tripped him in front of the referee in an attempt to stop the play.
Oliver issued a straight red card to the 18-year-old, despite protests from Arsenal players and staff.
The decision has since been overturned by the FA and Lewis-Skelly will now be available for Arsenal’s next three matches [FA Spokesperson on X]
Keith Hackett questions role of PGMOL in Arsenal red card controversy
Many were left stunned by Oliver’s decision to send off Arsenal’s Lewis-Skelly during their victory over Wolves on 25 January. Mikel Arteta was left “fuming” at the decision in his post-match interview [Sky Sports on X].
Former referee Hackett also joined the critics, questioning why VAR official Darren England did not intervene to correct what he believes was a “wrong” decision.
Reports suggest that the Gunners referenced Bruno Fernandes’ overturned red card for Manchester United against Tottenham earlier this season in their appeal [Daily Mail]. The North London club expected a similar outcome, and the decision was indeed reversed within hours.
Lewis-Skelly is now cleared to feature in Arsenal’s key clashes against Manchester City in the Premier League and Newcastle in the second leg of the Carabao Cup.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the incident, Hackett said:
“I would expect the PGMOL Boss Howard Webb, who supported Michael Oliver’s decision, to reflect on why the PGMOL supported Oliver’s decision which was clearly wrong in law.
“This was NOT Serious Foul Play.”
In other news, Arsenal could miss out on these three targets due to their transfer inactivity.
For more Arsenal news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.