Arsenal slapped with FA charge for angry complaints to referee Michael Oliver after controversial Myles Lewis-Skelly red card against Wolves

During the match at Molineux, 18-year-old Lewis-Skelly was shown a straight red card by Oliver for a challenge on Wolves defender Matt Doherty. The Arsenal youngster's tackle made contact with Doherty’s calf and ankle, leading Oliver to determine that the incident constituted "serious foul play."

Following Lewis-Skelly's dismissal, several Arsenal players surrounded referee Michael Oliver in protest. Midfielder Declan Rice led the charge, while defender Jurrien Timber was cautioned for his aggressive complaints.

The FA has now charged the club for failing to control its players.

"Arsenal FC has been charged after its players surrounded a match official during their Premier League fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers FC on Saturday, 25 January," an FA spokesperson said. "The club allegedly failed to ensure that its players did not behave in an improper manner around the 43rd minute. Arsenal FC has until Monday, 3 February, to provide a response."

Arsenal wasted no time appealing against the red card and after a review by an independent panel, the red card was rescinded, sparking further debate about officiating consistency in the league. Despite the controversy surrounding the red card, Arsenal managed to claim all three points with a narrow 1-0 victory. The match was ultimately decided by Riccardo Calafiori, who found the net in the second half after coming on as a substitute.

Despite the backlash, Oliver has continued officiating at the highest level. He took charge of Barcelona’s dramatic 2-2 draw with Atalanta in the Champions League on Wednesday and will oversee Ipswich Town’s clash with Southampton on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Gunners are set to face Manchester City in a highly-anticipated Premier League showdown, a game that could have significant implications in the title race.