The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has confirmed that police are investigating the abuse and threats directed at English referee Michael Oliver following the controversial Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Arsenal match on Saturday.
Oliver sent off Myles Lewis-Skelly for a challenge on Matt Doherty, forcing Arsenal to play the entire second half with a man down. Despite this, Mikel Arteta's side managed to secure all three points.
The decision was reviewed by the VAR and upheld by the PGMOL, who released a statement in support of Oliver. "We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver. No match official should be subjected to any form of abuse and certainly not the abhorrent attacks directed at Michael and his family over the last 24 hours. We are supporting Michael and all those affected and are determined to address this unacceptable behaviour," the PGMOL said, confirming that a number of investigations have been launched.
The PGMOL's stance was echoed by the wider football community, with many condemning the abuse directed at Oliver. Former players, managers, and pundits have all spoken out against the threats, calling for tougher action to be taken against those who abuse match officials.
The incident has once again highlighted the issue of abuse directed at referees in football. Despite numerous campaigns to promote respect for match officials, there have been a number of high-profile cases of abuse in recent years.
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