The FA wants to extend Millwall’s Roberts’ ban following Mateta’s horrific injury

The Football Association announced on Wednesday that it has filed a claim to extend Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts’ suspension after his challenge resulted in Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta requiring 25 stitches in his left ear.

In the sixth minute of last Saturday’s FA Cup match, Roberts ran out of his goal to deal with a pass forward and collided with Mateta, kicking him in the head.

Referee Michael Oliver initially gave a yellow card, but after seeing a VAR review of the event, he changed it to a straight red. Steve Parish, the chairman of the Palace, called it the most rash challenge he had ever witnessed.

The FA stated in a statement on X that “the standard punishment for this offence is clearly insufficient in the circumstances.” “Liam Roberts has until Thursday, 6 March, to provide a response.”

Second-tier Millwall stated they will oppose any extension, and Roberts will serve a three-match suspension for serious foul play.

“Millwall acknowledges the FA’s statement and will continue to support Liam who has been subjected to horrendous online abuse since Saturday’s collision,” the organization stated.

Roberts was not present at Millwall’s Championship home loss to Bristol City on Tuesday, yet in the sixth minute, fans cheered the goalie.

Mateta, a Frenchman who has been playing brilliantly for Palace, was treated on the field for ten minutes before being transported to the hospital for treatment of a serious cut.

“I’m doing great. Mateta wrote on social media, “I hope to return soon and stronger than ever.”