Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has been suspended for six games following his challenge on Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta during an FA Cup fifth-round match. Roberts was shown a red card for serious foul play after his high boot caught Mateta in the head, resulting in the Frenchman needing 25 stitches around his left ear.
The FA successfully appealed for an extended ban, which was doubled to six matches by an independent Regulatory Commission. Roberts served the first game of his suspension as Millwall suffered a 2-0 defeat to Bristol City in the Championship.
Despite facing online abuse, Millwall fans showed their support for Roberts with a minute’s applause. The club expressed their respect for the decision while also expressing disappointment.
In a statement, Roberts apologized to Mateta and confirmed his acceptance of the red card and subsequent punishment. He refuted claims of intent to harm and thanked those in the football community for their support during a challenging time.
The Regulatory Commission’s detailed reasoning for the decision will be made public in the near future. Roberts looks forward to returning to the pitch for Millwall and expressed gratitude for the club’s unwavering support.
The article also includes embedded tweets from the FA and Millwall FC, providing additional context to the story.