FA submit claim to extend Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts’ suspension

Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts could be set for a longer spell on the sidelines for his red card against Crystal Palace after the FA submitted a claim seeking to increase his suspension.

Roberts was sent off by referee Michael Oliver in the early stages of the FA Cup tie at Selhurst Park. Initially the match official had not penalised the Lions stopper after he raced off of his line to try and clear the ball – his boot connecting with the side of Jean-Philippe Mateta’s head.

The Eagles forward needed oxygen on the pitch before being stretchered off. Mateta had 25 stitches in a nasty wound around his ear.

Millwall lost the match 3-1.

Roberts was initially set for a three-match suspension but now the FA are looking to add a longer punishment.

“The FA has submitted a claim seeking to increase Liam Roberts’ sanction following his sending off in the FA Cup tie between Millwall and Crystal Palace on Saturday, March 1,” said the governing body in a statement.

“The goalkeeper was sent off for serious foul play around the sixth minute. The FA claims that in the circumstances the standard punishment for this offence is clearly insufficient.

“Liam Roberts has until Thursday, March 6, to provide a response.”

A Millwall spokesperson said: “Millwall Football Club acknowledges the FA’s statement and will continue to support Liam, who has been subjected to horrendous online abuse since Saturday’s collision.”