PGMOL release statement on Michael Oliver as investigation launched following Arsenal display

Lewis-Skelly was controversially shown a straight red card for a challenge on Matt Doherty at the end of the first half, with the Premier League confirming the decision was supported by VAR.

A statement from the Premier League’s Match Centre said: “The referee’s call of a red card for Lewis-Skelly was checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed his challenge to have been serious foul play.”

Though Arsenal went on to win the game courtesy of a goal from Riccardo Calafiori, the incident was a huge talking point online.

And on Sunday evening, the PGMOL have confirmed that referee Oliver was subjected to threats and abuse from supporters and the police have opened investigations into the “unacceptable behaviour”.

The 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.”

Lewis-Skelly has grown into an important player for Arsenal in recent months after breaking into the side but is now set to serve a three-game ban, meaning he will miss the visit of Manchester City next week as well as the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle United.

However, it is possible that the FA overturn the red card if Arsenal appeal the dismissal, which Mikel Arteta hinted at doing.

“I am absolutely fuming because it is that obvious, I don’t think my words are going to help,” Arteta told Sky Sports.

“It is that clear that I will leave it to you and hopefully the right thing will happen after today.

“It’s for the club to decide what the best decision is. I think it’s that obvious, maybe we don’t even need to [appeal]. It’s a really good precedent to what happened with Bruno [Fernandes] this season as well. We are in a position we shouldn’t be in.

“Hopefully it will be fair for the team and the player what is going to happen in the coming weeks. That’s what I’m hoping.”