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Myles Lewis-Skelly was given a straight red card for tripping Matt Doherty.
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has weighed in on the controversial red card issued to Myles Lewis-Skelly during Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Speaking on Sky Sports, Dean provided his insights on the decision made by referee Michael Oliver and the potential outcome of an appeal by Arsenal.
Dean initially disagreed with Oliver’s decision to send off Lewis-Skelly, describing the challenge as a cynical trip rather than serious foul play. He stated, “What he’s done, he hasn’t kicked him, he’s gone to trip him and caught the bottom of his boot. I don’t think it’s a straight red card in my opinion, I don’t think it is.
However, after reviewing the footage, Dean’s opinion shifted. He noted that the still image showed Lewis-Skelly’s studs going down the inside of Matt Doherty’s leg, which justified Oliver’s decision. Dean explained, “It looks like he’s gone to kick him, but he’s actually put his studs right down the inside of Doherty’s leg, so that’s why he’s sent off for serious foul play.”
Dean believes that Arsenal has grounds for an appeal and suggested that the decision might be overturned by an independent panel. He said, “They’ve got grounds for appeal… I would think, if they appeal, the way ex-managers and ex-players on the panel look at it, none of the players will think it is a red card, so they may well win the appeal.”
Dean’s verdict highlights the complexities of refereeing decisions and the importance of reviewing incidents from multiple angles. As Arsenal considers their next steps, the football community continues to debate the consistency and accuracy of officiating in the Premier League.
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