Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has been a ban on six games for his challenge on the Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Roberts came out of his goal Six minutes after the start of the FA Cup of the FA Cup last Saturday at Selhurst Park And caught Mateta in the head with a high boot, leaving the French requiring 25 stitches around his left ear.
Referee Michael Oliver missed the incident, but Roberts was cardboard for a serious game following the intervention of the assistant video referee.
An independent regulatory committee has confirmed the FA’s request to increase the suspension of Liam Roberts from Millwall.
Complete declaration: https://t.co/cpodisgcqa pic.twitter.com/b8avgr0dlh
– FA spokesperson (@faspokesperson) March 7, 2025
This brings a normal sanction of three games, but the FA said it justified more and brought its file to an independent regulatory committee, which agreed to double it to six games.
The written reasons for the regulatory committee for its decisions will be published in due time.
Roberts served the first match of his ban on Tuesday evening while Millwall lost 2-0 at home against Bristol City in the championship.
Millwall fans have shown their support for Roberts, who suffered abuse online, with a minute of applause.
The club says they “respect” today’s decision, although they are “disappointed with the result”.
Roberts out of the declaration
Roberts also published a statement, who said: “Hello everyone.
“While dust sets in, I want to answer what was a really difficult week for all the people concerned, including my family and me.
“First of all, to Jean-Philippe, to whom I continue to send my best wishes in his recovery. As soon as I could, I stretched my hand to Jean-Philippe personally to apologize, and I was grateful to hear him that evening that he was fine and reassured me not to worry.
Declaration of #Millwall Football club and Liam Roberts.
– Millwall FC (@Millwalfc) March 7, 2025
“I am devastated by what happened. I unequivocally accept red card as awarded and accept my punishment. In addition, it was extremely unpleasant to observe suggestions that I intended to harm a professional colleague. I have never categorically entered a football field with the intention of injuring anyone.
“Drum articles and comments have resulted in an unthinkable quantity of messages and abusive threats to my family and me. For the football community that knows me and contacted with support through this difficult period, thank you, I appreciate each message.
“Finally, I want to say a big thank you to everyone who is connected to the Millwall Football Club for their continuous support. The unit of this club is unique, and I can’t wait to return to the field in front of our fans.
“Be nice. Take care of yourself.
“Robbo.”
