Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has had his three-match ban for a dangerous challenge on Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta increased to six games by the Football Association.
The 30-year-old was sent off eight minutes into Millwall’s 3-1 FA Cup fifth-round defeat at Selhurst Park last weekend after dashing off his line and leaping into the air before kicking Mateta in the head as he tried to clear the ball.
Mateta required oxygen as he received on-field treatment for almost 10 minutes before being stretchered off and taken to an ambulance; Palace’s No.14 has since been discharged from hospital with 25 stitches in his left ear, and head coach Oliver Glasner has issued a positive update on his recovery.
Roberts faced criticism after the incident, with Palace chairman Steve Parrish labelling the challenge as “most reckless challenge I’ve ever seen”, while Glasner described it as a “terrible” and “dangerous” foul.
The goalkeeper then suffered what Millwall described as “disgusting” online abuse after the match, while Lions head coach Alex Neill defended his player, saying his challenge was not deliberate.
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Roberts handed six-match ban as three-game suspension was “clearly insufficient”
Millwall’s goalkeeper was initially handed a three-match ban for a straight red card for violent conduct, but the FA have since intervened and submitted a claim to have the ban extended.
In a statement, the FA said: “the standard punishment for this offence was clearly insufficient, and Liam Roberts subsequently denied this.
“Following a hearing, the Regulatory Commission upheld The FA’s claim, set aside the standard three-match punishment, and instead imposed a six-match ban.”
The written reasons for the Independent Regulatory Commission’s decision will be released in due course.
In response, Millwall say they are “disappointed with the outcome, but respect the process that has been undertaken”.
Roberts himself has issued a statement on the Lions’ official website, saying he is “devastated” by what happened and reached out to Mateta “immediately” after the game, while also commenting on the “abusive messages and threats” he has received.
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Roberts “unequivocally” accepts punishment for Mateta challenge
“As the dust settles, I want to address what has been a really difficult week for all concerned, including my family and I,” said Roberts.
“Firstly, to Jean-Philippe, who I continue to send my best wishes to in his recovery. As soon as I could, I reached out to Jean-Philippe personally to apologise, and I was thankful to hear back from him that evening that he was OK and reassured me not to worry.
“I am devastated by what happened. I unequivocally accept the red card as awarded and accept my punishment. Furthermore, it has been extremely unpleasant to observe suggestions that I intended to harm a fellow professional. I have categorically never stepped onto a football pitch with the intention of hurting anyone.
“Misleading articles and comments have resulted in an unthinkable amount of abusive messages and threats towards my family and I. To the footballing community who know me and reached out with support through this tough time, thank you, I appreciate every single message.
“Finally, I want to say a huge thank you to everybody connected to Millwall Football Club for their continued support. The togetherness throughout this club is unique, and I can’t wait to be back out on the pitch in front of our fans. Be kind. Take care, Robbo.”
Roberts has been Millwall’s reserve goalkeeper for the majority of this season and has played in just two Championship matches after first-choice shot-stopper Lukas Jensen suffered an injury in January.
He is now banned for Millwall’s next six games in the Championship, including Saturday’s trip to Watford and next Wednesday’s away clash with leaders Leeds United.
Roberts will also miss games against Stoke City, Sunderland, Portsmouth and Sheffield United, but he is available to return for a home fixture against Middlesbrough on April 12.
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