Michael Oliver-Arsenal controversy: ‘Panic button fitted, threats from President’
Michael Oliver has been subject to “unacceptable” abuse following his refereeing display as Arsenal beat Wolves 1-0 at Molineux on 25 January.
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official Keith Hackett exclusively told Football Insider that he does not condone the abuse the referee has received – but insisted “he is a strong individual” and “will receive the appropriate support”.
This comes after the PGMOL released a statement confirming their co-operation towards a police investigation that has got underway after the referee was subject to personal threats.
Oliver sent Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly off in controversial fashion during their 1-0 win against Wolves, and has since been targeted by outraged supporters.
However, Hackett warned “do not get into refereeing if you cannot take the criticism” and backed to official to bounce back quickly.
Keith Hackett defends Michael Oliver after Arsenal v Wolves controversy
However, he insists there is no place in the game for abuse or threats, despite the aggressive nature of football supporters in this country who “cannot control their emotions”.
The ex-Premier League and international official recalled numerous events in the past in which referees have been negatively targeted by fans.
David Elleray had a panic button installed for his own safety, while Howard Webb was targeted by the president of Poland after a controversial decision during an international fixture.
He also admitted he still receives abuse from West Ham fans for sending off a player during an FA Cup semi-final – explaining how officials are always targeted.
The former PGMOL chief went on to explain that Oliver will be supported by the body as an employee, and will also work to improve his own game as a result of the incident.
“There is no room in life for abuse and physical threats to anyone,” he told Football Insider.
“I do not condone the abuse that appears to be aimed towards Michael Oliver.
“Sadly this does happen on social media so be prepared for it when you open your laptop or switch on your phone.
“Not for the first time a referee has come under this type of unacceptable behaviour. In the past David Elleray had a panic button fitted to improve his personal protection.
“Howard Webb after correctly awarding a penalty kick against Poland received public threats from the president of that country.
“Many years ago the great English referee Jack Taylor offered some advice to young referees. If you don’t want to learn what fans think of you or your decisions then don’t read the newspapers.
“Social media platforms were not in operation.
“Once you open your social media platform then sadly there are people who cannot control their emotions. Neither do they forgive.
“Many years ago in a FA Cup semi final I sent off a West Ham player. I still receive abuse and dismiss it with a smile knowing that I applied the new DOGSO law interpretation at that time.
“Do not get into refereeing if you cannot take the criticism is my advice. The PGMOL is an employer and in that capacity they have a duty of care towards their employees.
“Michael Oliver like all his colleagues will receive the appropriate support. He is a strong individual and like all referees do not go out into the field of play to make mistakes.
“Sadly human beings do make errors. The important duty is to learn from them and not to repeat them.”
In other news, PGMOL told to outlaw ‘serious’ challenge after Wolves controversy.
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