Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has been handed a six-game ban for his problem on Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Roberts got here charging out of his aim six minutes into final Saturday’s FA Cup fifth-round tie at Selhurst Park and caught Mateta within the head with a excessive boot, leaving the Frenchman requiring 25 stitches round his left ear.
Referee Michael Oliver missed the incident however Roberts was red-carded for severe foul play following the intervention of the Video Assistant Referee.
An unbiased Regulatory Fee has upheld The FA’s declare to extend the suspension of Millwall’s Liam Roberts.
Full assertion: https://t.co/cPoDISGcQa pic.twitter.com/B8AVGR0DLh
— FA Spokesperson (@FAspokesperson) March 7, 2025
That brings a standard sanction of three video games however the FA claimed it warranted extra and took their case to an unbiased Regulatory Fee, who agreed to double it to 6 matches.
The Regulatory Fee’s written causes for its choices will probably be printed in the end.
Roberts served the primary sport of his ban on Tuesday night time as Millwall misplaced 2-0 at dwelling to Bristol Metropolis within the Championship.
Millwall followers confirmed their help for Roberts, who has suffered abuse on-line, with a minute’s applause.
The membership say they “respect” as we speak’s determination though they’re “disenchanted with the result”.
Roberts releases assertion
Roberts additionally launched an announcement, which learn: “Howdy everybody.
“Because the mud settles, I wish to deal with what has been a very tough week for all involved, together with my household and I.
“Firstly, to Jean-Philippe, who I proceed to ship my finest needs to in his restoration. As quickly as I might, I reached out to Jean-Philippe personally to apologise, and I used to be grateful to listen to again from him that night that he was OK and reassured me to not fear.
Assertion from #Millwall Soccer Membership and Liam Roberts.
— Millwall FC (@MillwallFC) March 7, 2025
“I’m devastated by what occurred. I unequivocally settle for the pink card as awarded and settle for my punishment. Moreover, it has been extraordinarily disagreeable to look at solutions that I supposed to hurt a fellow skilled. I’ve categorically by no means stepped onto a soccer pitch with the intention of wounding anybody.
“Deceptive articles and feedback have resulted in an unthinkable quantity of abusive messages and threats in direction of my household and I. To the footballing group who know me and reached out with help via this robust time, thanks, I respect each single message.
“Lastly, I wish to say an enormous thanks to all people related to Millwall Soccer Membership for his or her continued help. The togetherness all through this membership is exclusive, and I can’t wait to be again out on the pitch in entrance of our followers.
“Be sort. Take care.
“Robbo.”