Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly will be available for selection after the Football Association (FA) overturned his red card from the 1-0 victory over Wolves, following an appeal by the club.
An independent regulatory commission upheld Arsenal’s claim of wrongful dismissal, with the FA confirming the decision.
Arteta Praises Swift Resolution
Manager Mikel Arteta welcomed outcome, expressing his satisfaction on eve of Arsenal’s final Champions League group stage clash against Girona.
“We’re very happy that decision has been made,” Arteta said on Tuesday night.
“The club put all the evidence together to defend our position, and it was pretty fast. It’s good to know today because now we have more options, and that’s really positive for the team.”
Controversial Red Card Decision
The 18-year-old midfielder was sent off in the 43rd minute after a tackle on Matt Doherty near Wolves penalty area. Referee Michael Oliver deemed it serious foul play, a decision supported by VAR official Darren England, who opted against a pitchside review.
Despite being down to 10 men, Wolves also had Joao Gomes sent off in the 70th minute before Riccardo Calafiori scored the decisive goal in the 74th minute, securing Arsenal’s win.
After the match, Arteta expressed frustration with the decision, telling BBC Match of the Day:
“It’s so obvious that today you don’t need my words.”
He was even more direct with Sky Sports, saying:
“I am absolutely fuming, but I leave it with you. It’s that obvious, I don’t think my words will help.”
Backlash from Pundits and Players
The decision sparked strong reactions from pundits, with many believing the red card was unjustified.
Alan Shearer, the Premier League’s record goalscorer, called it:
“One of the worst decisions I’ve seen in a long time.”
“There was no speed, no intensity, and it wasn’t endangering an opponent. Never, ever a red card.”
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean defended the initial decision, stating on Sky Sports:
“When you see a still image, you understand what he’s done. He has put his studs down his leg for serious foul play.”
BBC pundit Pat Nevin was stunned by the red card, saying:
“It must be for violent conduct, but that doesn’t look like violent conduct. It’s a cynical trip. I have never seen that in my life.”
PGMOL Investigating Referee Abuse
The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has since revealed that referee Michael Oliver has been subjected to threats and abuse following the controversial decision. Authorities are now investigating the matter.
What’s Next for Lewis-Skelly?
With the ban lifted, Lewis-Skelly is once again available for selection, providing a boost to Arsenal’s squad depth as they continue their push in both domestic and European competitions.
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