Millwall Liam Roberts goalkeeper has surrendered a ban on six games to challenge the aggressive Crystal Palace Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Roberts came out of his target Six minutes at last Saturday FA CUP Fifth tie at Selhurst Park And the match was caught in the head with a tall boot, leaving the Frenchman who requires 25 stitches around his left ear.
Referee Michael Oliver lost the incident, but Roberts was red for a serious foul after the intervention of the assistant referee video.
An independent regulatory committee has confirmed FA’s requirement to increase the suspension of Millwall’s Liam Roberts.
Full statement: https://t.co/cpodisgcqa pic.twitter.com/b8avgr0dlh
– FA representative (@faspokesperson) 7 March 2025
This brings a regular ratification of three games, but FA claimed to be more justified and took their case to an independent Committee of Regulatory Arrangements, which agreed to double in six matches.
The written reasons of the Regulatory Committee for its decisions will be published in due time.
Roberts served the first game of his ban on Tuesday night, as Millwall lost 2-0 at home to Bristol City in the league.
Millwall fans have shown their support for Roberts, who has been abused online, with one minute applause.
The club says they “respect” today’s decision, though they are “frustrated by the result”.
Roberts releases the statement
Roberts also published a statement that searched: “Hi everyone.
“As the dust sets up, I want to face what was a really difficult week for all stakeholders, including my family and I.
“First, to Jean-Philippe, whom I continue to send my best wishes to his recovery. As soon as I could, I arrived at Jean-Philippe to apologize and I was grateful that I heard him that night he was okay and assured me not to worry.
Statement from #Millwall Football and Liam Roberts.
– Millwall FC (@millwallfc) 7 March 2025
“I am destroyed by what happened. I undoubtedly accept the red card as it is awarded and accepting my punishment. In addition, it was extremely unpleasant to observe suggestions that I intended to hurt a professional. I have ever accused it of never going on a football stadium.
“The misleading articles and comments have led to an inconceivable amount of abusive messages and threats to my family and I in the football community that knows me and has arrived with support through this difficult time, thank you, I appreciate every message.
“Finally, I want to say a huge thank you to all those associated with the Millwall Football Club for their continued support.
“Be kind. Care.
“Robbo.”
