Mike Dean provides an explanation for Michael Oliver’s decision to issue a red card to Arsenal player Myles Lewis-Skelly…

Mike Dean clarifies the reasoning behind Michael Oliver’s decision to send off Arsenal player Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Myles Lewis-Skelly received a controversial red card from referee Michael Oliver after a foul on Matt Doherty during Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Wolves in the Premier League on Saturday.

Former Premier League referee Mike Dean provided insight into Oliver’s contentious decision to dismiss Lewis-Skelly during the match.

The young player was shown a straight red card for his challenge on Wolves captain Matt Doherty, with VAR supporting Oliver’s ruling for serious foul play.

On Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday, Dean stated: “I have a still image that illustrates the referee’s reasoning. You can see that he has made contact with his studs down the inside of the leg. Having reviewed another angle, it becomes clear why the red card was issued.”

The Premier League Match Centre also issued a statement confirming that VAR reviewed and upheld the referee’s decision, categorizing Lewis-Skelly’s challenge as serious foul play.

Wolves faced a similar fate, as Joao Gomes received a second yellow card for a reckless tackle on Jurrien Timber, leaving both teams with ten players. Shortly thereafter, Riccardo Calafiori scored the decisive goal.

Commenting on the match outcome, former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin remarked on BBC Radio 5 Live, “Arsenal managed to hold on remarkably well today.

They were fortunate to have the game evened out to 10 against 10. After that, Arsenal appeared more likely to secure the win.

It was a fierce contest, and every player fought valiantly. The substitutes also contributed effectively. Mikel Arteta will likely be satisfied with his tactical approach.”

Goalscorer Calafiori expressed to Sky Sports the significance of their recent victory, stating, “Securing this win is crucial, as you can imagine.

However, our focus is on winning the next match as well. We aim to maintain this momentum. Our strategy was to avoid a defensive approach; we intended to pursue victory, and we succeeded.”

Additionally, Calafiori shared his perspective on Lewis-Skelly’s red card, remarking, “From my viewpoint on the bench, it was clearly not a red card.

I spoke with him at half-time, and he was understandably upset for the team. Ultimately, we secured the win, so it’s all good. He is a talented player and a great person, and we support him fully.”