LIAM Roberts has had his ban for his collision with Jean-Philippe Mateta increased from three to six games – as the Millwall goalkeeper revealed he and his family have been receiving threats this week.
Roberts was sent off in the eighth minute of the Lions’ fifth-round FA Cup tie against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, which the hosts went on to win 3-1 last weekend.
Roberts rushed from his goal but as he cleared the ball his follow-through caught Mateta on the head and the forward needed 25 stitches.
Roberts received the standard three-match ban but the Football Association deemed it “clearly insufficient” and appealed to increase it.
Millwall released a statement earlier this week condemning the abuse Roberts was receiving and questioning some of the media coverage of the incident.
The Lions released a statement on Friday saying they were “disappointed with the outcome, [but] respects the process that has been undertaken”.
The club also released a statement from Roberts.
It read: “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.
“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.”
