‘Disgusted’ – Millwall issue response citing ‘unwarranted character assassination’ of Liam Roberts

Millwall have issued a statement defending Liam Roberts after his red card in Saturday’s FA Cup loss at Crystal Palace and say they are “disgusted” at the abuse he has received.

The Lions keeper was sent off in the opening stages of the fifth round tie at Selhurst Park.

Roberts raced off his line to try and clear a high ball from Will Hughes but his boot connected with the head of Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as he tried to reach it first.

The French international had lengthy treatment on the pitch before being stretchered off. Mateta was taken to hospital and needed 25 stitches in the wound.

Roberts messaged Mateta on Saturday with Millwall head coach Alex Neil also seeking out Palace staff post-match to check on the frontman’s condition.

“The club are disgusted by abuse directed towards goalkeeper Liam Roberts following Saturday’s unfortunate collision with Jean-Philippe Mateta,” said a Millwall spokesperson.

“The reporting on the matter, as well as disgraceful suggestions made by certain news organisations and high-profile figures within the sport that Liam intended to harm Jean-Philippe, has contributed to the unwarranted character assassination of Liam and fuelled abhorrent online abuse towards him.

“No player at Millwall Football Club steps on to the pitch with the intent to harm another, and the club will continue to support Liam, who reached out to Jean-Philippe personally on Saturday evening with an apology which was accepted immediately.

 “The club are pleased to hear positive updates from Jean-Philippe and wish him the best in his recovery.”