Michael Oliver learns verdict from Premier League panel after Man City vs Arsenal drama

Michael Oliver’s decision to show Leandro Trossard a red card in Arsenal’s draw with Man City was correct, according to the Premier League’s Independent Key Match Incidents panel.

The Belgian forward saw red in the thrilling 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium, receiving his marching orders for kicking the ball away after already being booked moments earlier in the game.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was very frustrated with the dismissal, venting post-match: “I think it’s very clear. Very obvious. Hopefully what 100 per cent of what people thinks. It’s not my job to come here and judge what happened.

“My job is to survive in the most difficult environment you can throw in football for 55 minutes. And try to get things done to survive. That’s my job, the rest is not my job. It’s already the second time it has happened in five games, which is really, really worrying if we want to see the best Premier League.”

Despite Arteta’s frustration, Oliver’s call has been backed up. According to ESPN, the incident was reviewed by a five-man panel, resulting in a majority agreement with four votes supporting the decision and one against. Another major incident in the same fixture also passed without issue.

Following John Stones’ last-gasp equaliser, City striker Erling Haaland was seen throwing the ball at Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes’ head. Oliver didn’t choose to caution the Norwegian for this, and the FA have opted not to take it any further.

The Premier League panel also agreed with the decision, determining that it wasn’t a key match incident. The judgement is unlikely to appease Arsenal legend Ian Wright, who heavily criticised Haaland post-match.

In a video message on social media, Wright slammed: “Throwing the ball at Gabi’s head when he’s not looking. When Gabi’s back’s turned to him. Real coward’s move. Gabi would look him in the eye, you know.

“I’m looking at this as a really good defender versus striker, for the years to come. Them two, I love watching them, and then you do a coward’s move like that. That’s what bothered me more than anything else. I thought you [Haaland] were bigger than that.”

Following his commitments at the Etihad, Oliver returns to Premier League duty this weekend. He will fulfil his duties as VAR assistant for Chelsea’s clash with Brighton on Saturday, before taking charge of Southampton vs Bournemouth on Monday.