Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has received a six-game ban for his challenge at Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Roberts came out of his goal for six minutes in the FA Cup FA Cup FA Cup Fifth-Round Tie in Selhurst Park and caught Mateta in the head with a high boot, so that the Frenchman needed 25 stitches around his left ear.
Referee Michael Oliver missed the incident, but Roberts had turned red for serious false game after the intervention of the video assistant referee.
An independent regulatory committee has maintained the claim of the FA to increase the suspension of Millwall’s Liam Roberts.
Full explanation: https://t.co/cpodisgcqa pic.twitter.com/B8AVGR0DLH
– FA spokesman (@faspokezer) March 7, 2025
This brings a normal sanction of three games, but the FA claimed that it justified more and brought their business to an independent regulatory committee, which agreed to double it to six games.
The written reasons of the regulatory committee for its decisions will be published in due course.
Roberts served the first match of his ban on Tuesday evening when Millwall lost 2-0 to Bristol City in the championship.
Millwall -fans showed their support to Roberts, who had online abuse, with a minute of applause.
The club says that they “respect” today’s decision, although they are “disappointed about the outcome”.
Roberts issues a statement
Roberts has also issued a statement, with the text: “Hello everyone.
“While the dust covers, I want to tackle what has been a very difficult week for all involved, including my family and me.
“First of all, to Jean-Philippe, which I continue to send my best wishes in his recovery. As soon as I was able to contact Jean-Philippe personally to apologize to apologies, and I was grateful to hear him that he was fine that evening and assured me that I was not worried.
Explanation of #Millwall Football club and Liam Roberts.
– Millwall FC (@millwallfc) March 7, 2025
“I am devastated by what happened. I unambiguously accept the red card as awarded and accept my punishment. Moreover, it was extremely unpleasant to observe suggestions that I intended to harm a colleague professional. I have never categorically stepped on a football field with the intention of hurting someone.
“Misleading articles and comments have resulted in an unthinkable amount of insulting messages and threats towards my family and I to the football community that know me and with support through this difficult time, thank you, I appreciate every message.
“In the end I want to thank a huge to everyone who is connected to Millwall Football Club for their continuous support. The solidarity in this club is unique and I can’t wait to be on the field for our fans again.
“Be friendly. Greetings.
“Robbo.”
