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Premier League referee Michael Oliver will resume officiating duties this weekend despite being the target of threats and abuse.
Oliver was thrust into the limelight following his controversial sending off of Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly during the Gunners’ 1-0 win at Wolves.
The 39-year-old and his family were subjected to threats in the aftermath of Saturday’s match at Molineux with the police launching an investigation into the matter.
Oliver, his partner and their young child were targeted by online trolls leading to a police investigation.
A statement from the PGMOL on Sunday 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.
“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.”
Despite calls from former PGMOL head Keith Hackett for Oliver to be stood down for a couple of weeks, Oliver instead told the decision makers that he wanted to continue as normal this weekend.
Oliver’s request was granted and he will take charge of Ipswich’s clash with Southampton at Portman Road on Saturday.
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