PGMOL 'appalled' after referee Michael Oliver receives social media abuse for showing Arsenal defender Myles Lewis-Skelly red card

The PGMOL has expressed its deep disappointment at the tremendous amount of hatred that has been hurled at referee Michael Oliver through social media channels. This disconcerting development comes in the wake of Myles Lewis-Skelly's red card during Arsenal's victory against Wolves. The PGMOL considers this level of animosity to be completely unacceptable and is urging individuals to express their views in a more civilized manner.

Arsenal are expected to appeal the dismissal amid widespread criticism of Oliver's decision, despite the body responsible for refereeing games in English professional association football defending the decision on Sunday.

Lewis-Skelly was sent off for fouling Matt Doherty near the edge of the Wolves box.

The decision was "checked and confirmed" by Darren England, with the VAR deeming Lewis-Skelly to have committed "serious foul play".

Following online abuse of Oliver, a PGMOL statement read: "We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal fixture.

"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."

Reaction to the red card..

"I cannot believe Michael Oliver has sent Lewis-Skelly off there," said ' Tim Sherwood on Soccer Saturday.

"It is that clear and I will leave it to you guys," Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta told after the game. "I am absolutely fuming. But I will leave it with you, it is that obvious that I don't think my words are going to help."

PGMOL's position on the incident is the challenge is extremely late, the point of contact is high and video evidence supports that conclusion.

In the second half of Arsenal's win, Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes was only shown a yellow card for a high and late tackle on Jurrien Timber.

Although Gomes was sent off, the fact that he was dismissed for two bookings means he will only miss one match.

Monterosa