Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has been handed a six-game ban following a dangerous challenge on Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
The incident, which occurred last weekend, resulted in Mateta requiring 25 stitches for a severe laceration to his left ear.
Roberts was initially shown a straight red card, triggering an automatic three-match ban. However, the Football Association (FA) appealed for a longer punishment, and a regulatory commission backed the FA, adding an additional three games to the ban.
Millwall stated they were “disappointed with the outcome” but “respected the process.” Roberts himself issued a statement expressing his devastation and apologizing to Mateta.
“I am devastated by what happened. I unequivocally accept the red card as awarded and accept my punishment,” Roberts said.
He also refuted suggestions that he intended to harm Mateta, stating, “I have categorically never stepped onto a football pitch with the intention of hurting anyone.” Roberts also mentioned receiving abuse and threats towards his family due to “misleading articles and comments.”
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish described the challenge as the “most reckless” he had ever seen, while manager Oliver Glasner, though acknowledging Roberts likely didn’t intend to injure Mateta, emphasized the need for caution in such situations.
The incident has also seen referee Michael Oliver, who initially only showed a yellow card before VAR intervention, not appointed to a match this weekend.
Mateta was given oxygen on the pitch before being stretchered off and taken to the hospital.
