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    LaLiga chaos as referees willing to go on STRIKE after Real Madrid statement claiming decisions are ‘manipulated’

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    LALIGA referees are reportedly considering going on strike after a letter from Real Madrid questioning their integrity.In a bombshell statement, the Champions League winners said “decisions against Real Madrid have reached a level of manipulation and adulteration of the competition that can no longer be ignored.”LaLiga referees are willing to go on strike after Real Madrid issued a statement claiming their decisions were ‘manipulated’Credit: AFPReal Madrid were left furious after this challenge on Kylian Mbappe was only punished with a yellow cardCredit: DAZNVinicius Jr also saw a goal disallowed due to this off-the-ball challenge from MbappeLos Blancos were left furious with the quality of officiating during their 1-0 loss at Espanyol.Vinicius Jr saw a first half goal disallowed for an off-the-ball foul by Kylian Mbappe.And Espanyol’s Carlos Romero was only shown a yellow card for a studs-up lunge on Mbappe, before going on to score the winning goal.The Real Madrid letter also stated: “The scandal generated by this match has once again had worldwide repercussions, with the international press denouncing the biased use of VAR in Spain and the lack of credibility of Spanish refereeing.”READ MORE ON REAL MADRIDAnd the club called for the VAR audio footage of the incidents in question to be released immediately.But, answering a question from a caller, Cope journalist Isaac Fouto claimed that some referees in LaLiga are in favour of going on strike in response to the accusations.He said: “There are referees from the First Division who believe that they should go on strike.”But he added: “The strike is either everyone [or no-one]… some have said they will go, but everyone has to go.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”It is being considered, it is being considered in the environment. If this takes this turn, the competition will stop.”Following the Real Madrid letter, the Spanish FA [RFEF] released a statement backing its officials.Wholesome moment Jude Bellingham leaves a young Real Madrid fan crying with happiness as he hands him his shirtThe RFEF commented: “The refereeing task, by its very nature, is subject to review and analysis.”But this cannot lead to generalised accusations that cast doubt on their integrity, as this not only affects the referees themselves, but also erodes the credibility of soccer as a whole.“It is important to reflect on the consequences of this type of systematic questioning of refereeing. “Constantly delegitimizing the work of referees outside the established channels generates a climate of mistrust that benefits neither Spanish football nor its competitions.”Meanwhile Carlo Ancelotti has come out and said that the refereeing is better in the Premier League than LaLiga.The Real Madrid boss said: “What league has the best referees? Difficult to say. It’s a tough job. “What I can say is referees suffer less pressure in England, so they do their job better.” More

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      Arsenal would be TOP of the Premier League if VAR didn’t exist as full table is revealed

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      ARSENAL would be TOP of the Prem table if VAR did not exist.Despite their 5-1 thumping of Manchester City, Mikel Arteta’s side remain six points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand.Arsenal would be top of the league if VAR did not existCredit: GettyLiverpool would be a point worse off without the technologyCredit: AlamyBut if the original decisions in the Gunners’ games had not been overturned by the Stockley Park VAR booth, Arsenal would have had SIX more points, with Liverpool a point worse off.And that would have seen the Emirates side a point clear of the Anfield outfit.Arsenal have only seen five decisions changed after VAR intervention in their 24 Prem games so far.Only one of those – when Kai Havertz’ injury time goal in the 4-2 win over Leicester was initially wrongly flagged, has gone in their favour.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe first of the others saw William Saliba’s yellow card for a “last man” foul on Bournemouth striker Evanilson upgraded – although Arsenal were second best all game as they eventually lost 2-0.But the other three decisions – while all rightly corrected, denied the Gunners three wins.Havertz thought he had put his side ahead in the first half of the 1-1 draw at Chelsea, only for the technology to wipe out the strike.Then an offside call against Gabriel Martinelli in the build-up wiped out Bukayo Saka’s 88th-minute “winner” at Fulham.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd the VAR booth spotting that Mikel Merino’s late shot had deflected past Aston Villa keeper Emi Martinez off Havertz’s forearm meant last month’s clash at the Emirates finished 2-2.Liverpool’s second goal in the 2-2 draw with Manchester United came with VAR spotting a handball offence by Matthijs de Ligt, ensuring they took a point from the game.Premier League clash descends into farce as VAR counts number of playersWhile none of those decisions were wrong, it does show the potential impact of VAR.Without VAR, Bournemouth would be fourth, three places and five points better off – with PGMOL conceding their “winner” against Newcastle at the start of the season was wrongly disallowed for handball by Dango Ouattara.Newcastle have had TEN VAR changes in their favour, with only two against, while the technology has cost Man Utd four points. More

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      VAR orders referee to count number of players on pitch in most bizarre Premier League intervention yet

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      CHAOS erupted after VAR bizarrely ordered referee Andy Madley to count the NUMBER of players on the pitch during Wolves v Aston Villa.Wolves cruised to a shock 2-0 win against Villa at Molineux to move out of the relegation zone.Andy Madley was asked to confirm the NUMBER of players on the pitchGoncalo Guedes was already in the dugout but Wolves subs weren’t allowed onConfusion broke out on the touchlineIt took just under three minutes for Wolves to make two subsThe second half was littered with controversial moments as Villa saw a goal disallowed and Wolves were denied a penalty shout.The encounter then saw embarrassing scenes which have been likened to a Sunday League mix up.Wolves were 1-0 up -after Jean-Ricner Bellegarde’s opener – when they tried to make a double substitution in the 71st minute.The idea was for Goncalo Guedes and Rayan Ait-Nouri to make way for Rodrigo Gomes and Tommy Doyle.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHowever, what should’ve been a routine changeover after the Wolves par left the pitch was far from simple.Madley blew to stop play and was asked to get his fingers out and count up the players on the turf.Guedes was already sitting in the dugout, but Wolves weren’t allowed to bring their replacements on despite the fact that Tim Robinson was holding the fourth official board up. One fan wrote: “What in the Sunday league is going on here at Wolves 🤣.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe commentator said: “VAR are asking the referee to confirm that nobody has left the field. It beggars belief. Extraordinary scenes.”It took just under three minutes for Wolves to make those two substitutions. Aston Villa confirm Jhon Duran’s £64million transfer to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr with blunt 58-word statementIt’s unclear who asked him but Matt Donohue and Wade Smith were on VAR duties.Proceedings finally got back underway before Matheus Cunha wrapped up all three points in the seventh minute of injury time.But to make matters worse, VAR was previously called into scrutiny just 20 minutes before the chaos after disallowing Villa’s equaliser.New £21.5million signing Donyell Malen, who replaced Ollie Watkins at half-time, thought he’d scored his first Villa goal.Malen was behind the ball when he converted a low cross from John McGinn, although the linesman immediately raised his flag.But VAR found something else wrong and ruled that Morgan Rogers was offside when he obstructed Nelson Semedo in the build-up. A statement from the Premier League’s Match Centre account on X read: “The referees call of no goal due to an offside offence is checked and confirmed by VAR – with Rogers in an offside position and deemed to be impacting the ability of Semedo to play or challenge for the ball.”Matheus Cunha wrapped up all three points in the seventh minute of injury timeCredit: Alamy More

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      Arsenal are one of Premier League’s LUCKIEST teams this season despite fan complaints as full luck table revealed

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      THE Premier League luck table has been revealed – with Arsenal getting the rub of the green.The title-chasing Gunners have been on the wrong end of a number of decisions so far this season.Arsenal have been one of the more lucky teams in the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyManchester United have been at the other end of the able, so far this campaignCredit: APThat includes a now rescinded red card for Myles Lewis-Skelly against Wolves last weekend.However, new stats by analysts at OLBG appear to show Mikel Arteta’s side haven’t been as unlucky as they think in the Premier League.A mix of minimal defensive errors and moderate VAR outcomes see Arsenal third in the table.They’ve not conceded an error leading to a goal all season, and score a number of them.READ MORE ON ARSENALHowever, they have had seven injuries this campaign, to key players such as Bukayo Saka.Meanwhile, Manchester United and Chelsea are having very little when it comes to luck.They’ve had a mixture of injuries, VAR decision against them, and a staggering NINE errors leading to goals.Ruben Amorim’s side haven’t had VAR on their side much, and struggled to bag late on.Most read in FootballMeanwhile, Chelsea are in the same boat, with five decisions for and against through VAR.They’ve also had the same amount of injuries and late goals scored.The Blues have conceded eight times between the 81-90 minute in the Premier League, as well.The table – which is solely based off stats – shows Newcastle are the luckiest side ahead of Gameweek 24.Southampton, who are bottom of the real Prem, are the unluckiest, with 17 goals against them from errors.The Saints have also had a tough time stopping late goals, with 11 against them in the final ten.How the Premier League luck table worksErrors Leading to Goals – 20%Goals Conceded (81-90 min) – 20%Number of Injuries – 10%VAR Against – 20%VAR For – 20%Goals Scored (81-90 min) – 10%Ipswich and Everton are also around the bottom, struggling with a high amount of mistakes.Each team has been given a luck score out of 100 for the unique insight into the 2024-25 campaign.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The Luck Index offers a fascinating perspective on how external factors, beyond skill and strategy, can influence the Premier League,” said Jake Aston, Sports Betting Expert at OLBG.”It’s a unique way to analyse the unpredictable elements of football.” More

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      ‘Just unacceptable’ – Mikel Arteta blasts attack of referee Michael Oliver as police probe abuse after Arsenal red card

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      MIKEL ARTETA blasted the attack of referee Michael Oliver and urged governing bodies to kick “hatred” out of football.Police are investigating abuse suffered by Oliver after he controversially sent off defender Myles Lewis-Skelly in Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Wolves last weekend.Mikel Arteta has blasted the abuse directed at Michael Oliver following Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Wolves on SaturdayCredit: EPAMichael Oliver is currently having his house monitored by police after ‘abhorrent abuse’ following the matchCredit: AlamyOliver controversially sent off Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly during the matchCredit: PAThe Gunners full-back has since had his three-match ban wiped out by an independent committee after the club filed an appeal on Tuesday morning – despite the player missing the news due to being ASLEEP on the plane.But ref Oliver continues to have his house watched by police following alleged threats against him and his two-year-old daughter – leaving the PGMOL “appalled”.And Arsenal boss Arteta – who recently slated the online hate aimed at his player Kai Havertz – said: “Regardless of whether it is a player or a coach, a referee — it does not matter.“We shouldn’t be here with this hatred, these things we see, because they affect everyone and in the end, they take away the joy of this sport.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“We have to really work harder to try to eradicate that part of the game that brings nothing but bad stuff, bad taste and it makes people’s lives more difficult. Let’s get it out, let’s kick it out.“For everyone in football. You should not be permitted [to do that]. We don’t want it, we don’t need it and it certainly damages our sport.“We are talking about it, but no one seems to be moving strongly enough because it’s just unacceptable. Why haven’t we done it?“We’re always putting a lot of emphasis on where football is going in the next five, ten years; on the rules, and all that sort of thing.Most read in FootballLewis-Skelly was dismissed for a trip on Wolves star Matt DohertyCredit: AlamyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“But the most important thing we can do is create an environment that’s much better at a social level: one that’s healthier, that’s nicer.“Reward things that are not only winning, that when people make mistakes they have the chance to make amends.”Moment Mikel Arteta gives Michael Oliver ‘death stare’ after shaking his hand following Lewis-Skelly red card blunderOliver will not officiate Arsenal’s clash with Manchester City on Sunday, instead taking charge of Ipswich vs Southampton at Portman Road on Saturday before overseeing the Merseyside Derby between Liverpool and Everton on February 5.It is also alleged that Oliver received a threat of a car bomb after the awarding of a penalty during Manchester United’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool on January 5.Havertz also had his wife and unborn child attacked on Instagram following Arsenal’s FA Cup third round penalty shoot-out defeat to Man United on January 12 in which the German missed the decisive spot-kick.Arsenal were understood to have been in touch with the PGMOL over the abuse aimed at Oliver and are supportive of any inquiries.The PGMOL said in a statement on Sunday: “No official should be subject to any form of abuse, let alone the abhorrent attacks aimed at Michael and his family.“We are supporting Michael, and all those affected, and are determined to tackle this unacceptable behaviour. Sadly, this is not the first time a match official has been forced to deal with threats in recent times.”Lewis-Skelly was sent off in the 43rd minute at Molineux for a tame trip on Matt Doherty inside the Wolves half – with the decision upheld by VAR official Darren England as “serious foul play”, one that left Arteta “fuming”.Oliver also sent off Wolves’ Joao Gomes in the 70th minute for a second yellow before Riccardo Calafiori scored a late winner.Pundits such as Micah Richards and Alan Shearer blasted Oliver for sending off Lewis-Skelly, the former labelling it “one of the worst decisions I have ever seen”.On Lewis-Skelly’s ban being lifted, Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori said: “We knew that it was a mistake, and now we keep on going and I’m happy for him.“He’s a strong guy mentally and also on the pitch.”An Arsenal statement said yesterday evening: “An independent Regulatory Commission has upheld a claim of wrongful dismissal in relation to Myles Lewis-Skelly and removed his three-match suspension.”Asked how Lewis-Skelly reacted to the news ahead of their Champions League clash at Girona, Arteta said: “He was sleeping on the plane [to Spain] when I got the news and looked back. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I haven’t spoken to him but I imagine there is a big smile on his face.On if he woke him up, Arteta laughed: “I was working and he was in the back, so I didn’t.”Kai Havertz and his family were recently the victims of online abuse tooCredit: APMARK HALSEY: Questions have to be asked of VAR after Lewis-Skelly sending off… here’s what SHOULD have happenedBy Mark HalseyVAR Darren England should have recommended a review as soon as referee Michael Oliver showed Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly a straight red card for his challenge on Wolves’ Matt Doherty.An official has to decide whether the challenge was careless or reckless — careless is a free-kick only, reckless is a yellow card — or worthy of a red card.When a player lunges at an opponent with one or two feet from the front, the side or from the back which endangers the player’s safety with excess force or/and brutality, it must be sanctioned with a red.I saw it as a reckless challenge worthy of a yellow, not a red.So why did Darren not recommend a review? Once the red card was shown, the VAR should have intervened.If Michael had the opportunity to view the challenge again, I’m sure he would have changed his mind, cancelled the red card and issued a yellow.As for Arsenal fans’ views that Michael is biased against them, I’m not buying into that. You can never question the integrity of a match official and Michael is one of our best referees.Officials cannot get everything right and that is why we have VAR to help. So questions have to be asked of Darren.With the second yellow for Joao Gomes after catching Jurrien Timber on the ankle, you could argue that was a worse challenge than the Lewis-Skelly one. More

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      Michael Oliver should not be exposed to Arsenal fans after death threats over Lewis-Skelly red card, says ex-Prem ref

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      MICHAEL OLIVER should not be given any Arsenal games by his refereeing bosses.SunSport whistler, ex-Prem ref Mark Halsey, says it is common sense to keep Oliver away from Gunners games for a while after he and his family were given police protection off the back of death threats.Michael Oliver received severe backlash for giving Myles Lewis-Skelly a controversial red card at the weekendCredit: GettyThe incident left Arsenal players and fans furiousCredit: GettyCops have been making round-the-clock checks on Oliver’s family home after he was the subject of sick abuse due to the controversial red card for Myles Lewis-Skelly in Arsenal’s win at Wolves, which has now been overturned.PGMOL protocol means that Oliver is unlikely to take charge of an Arsenal game in the coming weeks.Halsey said: “The PGMOL will keep him away from Arsenal for a while, which is the right thing to do.”When there is friction between a ref and a club that is the right thing to do, why create a problem for yourself.Read More in Football”Taking him away from Arsenal is not derogatory towards Michael and his ability. It is common sense.”Oliver’s integrity has also come under serious scrutiny following the incident.Halsey added: “That does not come into it, you cannot question the integrity of a referee.”The referee goes out and referees what is in front of him.Most read in Football”There are millions of people watching him, he has an evaluation on his game too. You don’t prejudge anything.”Halsey also feels there needs to be more protection for top officials, with their hectic schedule adding further strain.Shamed Ref David Coote EXCLUSIVE on death threats, coke battle & coming out | The SunOliver is back in action taking charge of Barcelona v Atalanta in the Champions League tomorrow and will be at Portman Road for Ipswich v Southampton on Saturday.He has also been appointed to officiate the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on February 12 – another high profile game – and will likely be given an FA Cup fourth round game next weekend.Former ref Mark Halsey said: “Michael is our best referee by far.”He is reffing week in, week out. Perhaps PGMOL are not looking after him.”Players lose form and have indifferent performances, it’s the same with referees. They are out every week and also used in the VAR hub.”There has to be accountability when they put in a poor performance. I am not blaming the referees, it is the leadership and the direction coming from PGMOL management.”Howard Webb hasn’t got the right personnel below him in coaching terms.”Halsey himself has been the subject of death threats following a Liverpool vs Manchester United game in 2012, which left him fearing for his safety.He said: “I have been there and been through it. You fear for your safety, but luckily for me nothing happened.”I had just come back from cancer, my wife had Leukaemia and they wanted both of us to die, they wanted my illness to come back.”They wanted to do horrible things to my daughter.”I received a letter in the post saying there is a bullet waiting for you.”You expect abuse from fans in the terraces, you are a uniform.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Because you are the ref they feel they have the right to have a go at you. You have to have mental toughness about you to survive.”I commend him for going back out, Michael is mentally tough and a strong character. Michael always does the best games because he is trusted by management.”Arsenal player ratings: David Raya saves all three-points for Arsenal but Trossard’s woeful deliveries an issue againARSENAL finally won a match with ten-men after Myles Lewis-Skelly was controversially sent off.It was the Gunners’ fourth sending off this season and they had not won any of their matches without 11 players this term.But Arsenal showed their character and battled past Wolves 1-0.Here is how SunSport rated the players’ performances.DAVID RAYA – 8/10Very little to do until the 63rd minute when he brilliantly tipped a deflected Matheus Cunha effort wide. He then stopped Rayan Ait-Nouri in a one-on-one in the 84th minute.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 6Was having another fine game before being the victim of one of most ludicrous red cards in Prem history. His cynical trip was worthy of a yellow and nothing more.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7Arsenal just look so solid with him in this backline. A welcome return from a minor hamstring injury. Kept Cunha at bay.GABRIEL – 7Led from the front and put his body on the line. Constantly headed away from danger.JURRIEN TIMBER – 6Hit with some nasty challenges that required treatment – including one that had Joao Gomes sent off – but carried on playing and was resolute.DECLAN RICE – 7More of a goal threat than in recent weeks and stood up when Arsenal needed him.THOMAS PARTEY – 7Steady Eddie for most parts back in his favoured midfield position after spells at right-back this season. Displayed his importance to this side once more.ETHAN NWANERI – 6Unfortunately made way at half-time as a sacrificial lamb following Lewis-Skelly’s sending off. Was a lively, creative spark in the first-half.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 5In the absence of Bukayo Saka, the Belgian is on corner-taking duty, but his deliveries were woeful. A quiet afternoon that sums up why he is in and out of the team currently.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Was lacking that clinical edge in the first half, but came up with the cross after the break that led to Arsenal’s vital opener.KAI HAVERTZ – 7Missed two glorious first half chances with his head and another in the second half, but worked tirelessly on his own – especially with Arsenal down to ten.SUBS:RICCARDO CALAFIORI (NWANERI, 45) – 8The sort of goal that keeps title dreams alive. Added real height and danger aerially, as well as a sweet volley from a tough angle.KIERAN TIERNEY (MARTINELLI, 87) – N/A More

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      I’ve had deaths threats after games with thugs hoping my mum dies of AIDS & I end up paralysed, says ex-ref David Coote

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      DAVID Coote last night revealed the sickening abuse aimed at match officials — including death threats and warped internet trolls saying they hope his mum dies of AIDS in her sleep.Sacked Coote called for TV pundits to stop “whipping up” fans into a frenzy against referees amid “hysterical” analysis, claiming messages he has received from crazed supporters added to his spiral into cocaine abuse.David Coote revealed the sickening abuse aimed at match officialsCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers LtdThe sacked ref has received death threats and had warped internet trolls saying they hope his mum dies of AIDS in her sleepCredit: PAMichael Oliver sent off Gunner Myles Lewis-Skelly during Saturday’s Wolves versus Arsenal Premier League clashCredit: PAWeeping, the 42-year-old, who described some messages as “abhorrent”, told The Sun: “I’ve received death threats during my career. “I’ve needed an accelerated response tag on my home address for me to speak to the police in an emergency.“I’ve also had messages from irate supporters hoping that I had an accident on the way home from a game. “They didn’t just want me to die but to be paralysed, so I’d suffer every day for the rest of my life.Read More on Sport“Other messages included hoping that my mum dies of AIDS overnight.“People target referees without accountability on social media, and at matches. “I can’t see how that is acceptable. “There is standard abuse on a regular basis, but some crosses any line of acceptability.Most read in Football“I’m sorry people are talking about me for the wrong reasons. “I’m not here looking for sympathy. Scandal-hit Premier League ref David Coote SACKED after videos emerged of anti-Klopp rant and snorting white powder“I just want to say that I am a human being that’s made mistakes.“I’m paying the consequences. “I’m taking responsibility for making those mistakes. “I hope that others in my situation seek help in the right ways as I’m now trying to do.”Coote revealed that at the elite level of the game it’s not always a stadium full of 60,000 fans screaming ‘the referee’s a w*****’ that causes the most upset.He said: “We have an earpiece in, and are on comms. “We’re constantly talking to each other and listening to players on the field, so actually the noise in the stadium doesn’t impact us very much.“But what is more impactful is the things you hear and see that are individual — the targeted abuse.“There are fans who decide to hang around for an hour or two after a game to individually abuse us, hanging over the barriers as we leave the stadium.“And there are those who take to social media. “Some refs might not be on social media, but it still has an impact on friends and family.“Some of the things said are abhorrent. “That has more impact on us as individuals, and as people.”He went on: “Every official that takes the pitch up and down the country from a local playing field to the Premier League is a human being, not just a referee.“They have feelings. “They may not show them, but it will impact them when they’re receiving abuse. “I’ve struggled and I’ve tried to get through it in my own way and made poor decisions in doing so.“I hope that others make better decisions  and that referees are given an easier ride in the levels of scrutiny, and levels of abuse that come in their direction.“I hope this shines a light on the impact it can have on a person.”Coote spoke out as fellow referee Michael Oliver, his partner Laura and two-year-old daughter, received death threats after Saturday’s Wolves versus Arsenal Premier League clash, when he sent off Gunner Myles Lewis-Skelly.Fans said they knew where he lived and were going to brick his windows.Three weeks ago, after Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United, someone said they were going to blow up Oliver’s car with his family inside it.Coote said of the menaces towards his friend: “This isn’t the first time this season we’ve heard of such abuse. “Sadly, it won’t be the last.“I know only too well the toll these appalling and frightening threats can have, but you have no option other than to take it.“Referees have no right of reply, while those who make the threats face no action. “It has to change.”Referees have no right of reply, while those who make the threats face no action. It has to changeDavid CooteDespite his fall from grace, Coote is keen to draw attention to how tough refereeing can be. He pointed out that officials are increasingly forced into “centre stage”.In the January 8 Carabao Cup semi-final between Spurs and Liverpool, Stuart Attwell became the first ref in England to announce a VAR decision in the stadium when he explained why Dominic Solanke’s late goal for Spurs was ruled out. Coote said: “The difficulty with being a referee is that the concept of resilience is key to doing what we do.“That means the opposite of resilience is a vulnerability or a weakness. “If I’ve got to be resilient to do the job then showing weakness and vulnerability immediately casts doubt over the ability to do that role.“I hope others who are finding things difficult are given the support they need to be able to show weakness and vulnerability because it’s impossible to keep up the facade over the course of time.”Coote’s sacking triggered change in the PGMOL, the referees’ governing body, including providing psychological support.He said officials had had the chance to have their say on “what could be done differently”. He said he was grateful for the support of colleagues, the PGMOL’s Howard Webb and Danielle Every and well-wishers in the street.The support has helped me get through some really tough timesDavid CooteHe said: “The support has helped me get through some really tough times.“My episodes hit the whole refereeing community hard because it showed just how accountable everybody in the game is.”Coote, a fan of League Two Notts County, began his route to top-level officiating by running the line for his dad and uncle’s Sunday team aged 14.He was urged to take a referees’ course and progressed through the levels of the game until he was invited to become a full-time Championship official.The Premier League followed and, a few years later, he added the VAR skill set.He said: “Nobody really prepares you for moving through each level and then arriving in the Premier League, which is like a goldfish bowl.”You don’t apply for promotion, people just take a judgment on your performances and you as a person, and give you the opportunity at a new level.“All of us who operate at the top levels of the game, we’re just normal guys, football fans who’ve been fortunate enough to be selected and move through the levels.“I’ve been really fortunate as a football fan to have seen the great players at such close quarters. “But there is a trade-off. “We don’t get an easy ride of it.”Coote said there’s no a simple fix to make football genuinely inclusive.He said: “It’s a difficult world to work in. “To be ‘me’ in football wasn’t easy. “I didn’t want to draw unnecessary attention to myself and I understand why others wouldn’t want to do the same.“I’ve no doubt that if somebody did come out there would be a lot of support but also they’d be opening themselves up to online abuse and prejudicial views that have no place in the society we live in.“It’s much more than a football problem. “It’s more of a society problem, particularly given how tribal football fans can be in a win-at-all-costs game.”Despite the scandal, Coote hopes to remain in the game and is keen to play a role speaking out for refs in the media.For now, he is training for a marathon in May to raise funds for research into motor neurone disease, which his uncle has.He said: “I’ll be looking to make sure my health and wellbeing is in the best possible place.”IT’S VERY BRAVE MOVEBy AMAL FASHANU, Niece of Justin who runs foundation in his name“IT is very brave for anyone to come out, but more so for someone in the public eye.“This will affect David Coote and is a big step but it should have less of an effect that in would on a player. Amal Fashanu, niece of JustinCredit: Darren FletcherNorwich striker Justin killed himself in 1998 after becoming the first top-flight player to come outCredit: Getty – Contributor“It’s not the same level of fame.”Amal, whose former Norwich striker uncle killed himself in 1998 after becoming the first top-flight player to come out, added: “We’d love to chat to him at the foundation.“We’d be there to offer any support and counselling.“We also help people with mental health problems and would be there for him if that was an issue.“There’s still something very wrong at the top of football.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We’re in 2025, when everyone is supposedly liberal and accepting, yet something is stopping these men accepting who they are.“Football is still failing in this regard.” More

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      Michael Oliver to make immediate return in huge clash despite sick death threats after controversial Arsenal red card

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      MICHAEL OLIVER will make an immediate return to action despite receiving death threats following his decision to send off Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly.The 39-year-old official has been appointed to referee Barcelona’s Champions League group game against Atalanta on Wednesday, and is expected to resume Premier League duty this weekend. Michael Oliver will make an immediate return to action despite receiving death threatsCredit: GettyOliver’s family have been targets of sick abuse that are being investigated by the police, which led former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett to suggest he should be taken out of the firing line.Oliver has told Uefa and PGMOL bosses that he wants to carry on however, with both backing his judgement.PGMOL will announce the refereeing appointments for this weekend’s Premier League matches on Tuesday.Oliver held talks with current PGMOL boss Howard Webb on Monday, with the refs’ chief reaffirming their support.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe police investigation into the death threats made against Oliver was stepped up yesterday with the case handed to specialist officers at the UK Football Policing Unit.UKFPU officers are working with social media companies to track down the individuals who sent vile abuse, with the police determined to prosecute.“If people think they can hide behind their keyboards, they are mistaken,” said UKFPU chief, Mark Roberts. “And we will pursue offenders abroad too, with the assistance of overseas forces.”Oliver was targeted after his decision to send off Lewis-Skelly in the first half of Arsenal’s 1-0 win at Wolves on Saturday.Most read in Football“Officers from the UKFPU have launched an investigation after a number of abusive messages were directed toward a referee following a Premier League match,” UKFPU said in a statement yesterday.“On Sunday January 26 police were contacted by the UK Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in relation to social media messages directed towards referee Michael Oliver.“Enquiries are in the early stages and officers are working closely with social media providers, including Facebook and X, to identify those responsible for the messages.”Fans spot Arsenal star Leandro Trossard’s 6-word comment about Michael Oliver to Wolves ace More

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      Police open investigations as ref Michael Oliver subjected to ‘abhorrent attacks’ after controversial Arsenal red card

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      POLICE have opened an investigation after referee Michael Oliver was subjected to “abhorrent attacks”.The official sent off Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly during the Gunners’ 1-0 win against Wolves.Michael Oliver has been targeted by ‘abhorrent attacks’Credit: GettyIt has followed his sending off of Myles Lewis-Skelly against WolvesCredit: AlamyThe decision was deemed as controversial and was not changed by VAR.The defender, 18, tripped Matt Doherty as he looked to break away.Replays showed that the Arsenal star’s studs caught the Wolves player.The Premier League confirmed that VAR supported the decision as Lewis-Skelly was guilty of “serious foul play”.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe PGMOL have now released a statement confirming that the police have opened an investigation into abuse targeting the referee.It read: “We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal fixture.”No official should be subject to any form of abuse, let alone the abhorrent attacks aimed at Michael and his family over the past 24 hours.”The police are aware, and a number of investigations have commenced.Most read in Football”We are supporting Michael, and all those affected, and are determined to tackle this unacceptable behaviour.”Sadly, this is not the first time a match official has been forced to deal with threats in recent times.Mikel Arteta ‘absolutely fuming’ after controversial Myles Lewis-Skelly red cardMARK HALSEY: Questions have to be asked of VAR after Lewis-Skelly sending off… here’s what SHOULD have happenedBy Mark HalseyVAR Darren England should have recommended a review as soon as referee Michael Oliver showed Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly a straight red card for his challenge on Wolves’ Matt Doherty.An official has to decide whether the challenge was careless or reckless — careless is a free-kick only, reckless is a yellow card — or worthy of a red card.When a player lunges at an opponent with one or two feet from the front, the side or from the back which endangers the player’s safety with excess force or/and brutality, it must be sanctioned with a red.I saw it as a reckless challenge worthy of a yellow, not a red.So why did Darren not recommend a review? Once the red card was shown, the VAR should have intervened.If Michael had the opportunity to view the challenge again, I’m sure he would have changed his mind, cancelled the red card and issued a yellow.As for Arsenal fans’ views that Michael is biased against them, I’m not buying into that. You can never question the integrity of a match official and Michael is one of our best referees.Officials cannot get everything right and that is why we have VAR to help. So questions have to be asked of Darren.With the second yellow for Joao Gomes after catching Jurrien Timber on the ankle, you could argue that was a worse challenge than the Lewis-Skelly oneJamie Redknapp hit out at the abuse sent to OliverCredit: Sky Sports”We will continue to support all investigations.”Former Tottenham player Jamie Redknapp hit out at the abuse sent to Oliver.Speaking on Sky Sports, he said: “It is absolutely disgraceful.”We are getting to the point now with referees where if you are right, you’re right and if you are wrong you are corrupt.”If we get to that point we won’t have any young referees wanting to work in the game.”Michael Oliver is by far the best referee we have I don’t think it is close.”Everyone makes mistakes, they are honest mistakes, we can probably count on one hand how many he has made in his career.”If I was to play one more match in my life he would be the referee I would want to do it.”I hope whoever is giving this abuse is found out.”Meanwhile, former head of the PGMOL Keith Hackett believes Oliver should be dropped following the red card.Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was fuming with the decision as he spoke to the media after the match.He said: “It is that clear that I leave it to you guys. I am absolutely fuming but I leave it with you – because it is that obvious. I don’t think my words are going to help.”I think it is obvious that we don’t need any comments today, and hopefully, the right thing will happen after today.”Hopefully, we don’t need to (appeal) and, if we have [to], it happened and it’s a really good precedent what happened with Bruno this season as well.”So, hopefully, okay we were in a position we shouldn’t be in.READ MORE SUN STORIES”At least, let’s be in a position that we should be in for the next few weeks and allow that player to continue to do his job.”The manager could even be seen giving Oliver a death stare at full-time.Arsenal legend Ian Wright hits out at Myles Lewis Skelly red card decisionIAN WRIGHT has joined the long-list of former professionals and pundits to be left reeling by the decision to send off Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly on Saturday.The cynical challenge left most fans expecting a yellow card, but the Hale End graduate was shown red by referee Michael Oliver instead.Leandro Trossard, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Magalhaes led the on-field protests as Arsenal’s players showed their frustration at the decision.And now Gunners icon Ian Wright has weighed in on the incident, claiming that it’s “never a red”.In a video posted on social media by the former Premier Legue bagsman, he fumed: “It’s a joke!”Anyone that has ever played the game, and I’m not even talking Premier League, I’m talking five-a-side, Sunday league, knows that it’s never a red.”Yellow card, nobody says a word. Time and time again, this level of refereeing [and] the decisions in the Premier League… the inconsistency, the excuses, the apologies.”All of them are just the centre of attention for me. We can’t criticise too hard because, where are the refs going to come from? Where are we going to get them?”But I’m sorry, this is the highest level of football and we do not have the highest level of referees. When will the Premier League bring the best refs into the so called ‘best league in the world’?”Because at the moment, with this level of refereeing, we’re nowhere near it. Nowhere near it.” More