(The Guardian) Millwall keeper Liam Roberts banned for six games
Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has had his three-game ban extended to six games by the FA. Roberts was sent off for his challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta in Crystal Palace’s FA Cup fifth-round win last Saturday. The Palace striker required 25 stitches to his ear, but is expected to return for the quarter-final against Fulham in late March.
Millwall have said they are “disappointed with the outcome, but respects the process that has been undertaken.” In addition, Roberts has released a statement via the club, saying he is “devastated by what happened.”
“As the dust settles, I want to address what has been a really difficult week for all concerned, including my family and I. 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.”
Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has had his three-game ban extended to six games by the FA. Roberts was sent off for his challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta in Crystal Palace’s FA Cup fifth-round win last Saturday. The Palace striker required 25 stitches to his ear, but is expected to return for the quarter-final against Fulham in late March.
Millwall have said they are “disappointed with the outcome, but respects the process that has been undertaken.” In addition, Roberts has released a statement via the club, saying he is “devastated by what happened.”
“As the dust settles, I want to address what has been a really difficult week for all concerned, including my family and I. 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.”
