FA explain written reasons for Liam Roberts’ extended ban following Millwall keeper’s red card in Crystal Palace FA Cup clash

Crystal Palace accused Liam Roberts of injuring Jean-Philippe Mateta with “the most extreme and violent force” during their FA Cup 3-1 win over Millwall.

Roberts was sent off by referee Michael Oliver after eight minutes at Selhurst Park following a VAR review showed the goalkeeper clattering into Mateta outside of the box.

The striker was given oxygen before being taken to hospital. It was later revealed that Frenchman Mateta needed 25 stitches for a ‘severe laceration’ to his left ear.

Roberts’ three-match ban was later extended to six games.

In the Football Association’s written reasons in relation to Roberts’ ban, Palace’s letter read: “LR (Roberts) left his box and “[propelled] himself and his boot at the head of JMP, striking his head viciously with a high boot.

“JMP (Mateta) is 6ft 4inches tall. He was almost at full height at the point of contact. LR’s boot must have been between 6ft and 6ft 4 inches in the air.

“LR was fully aware of JMP; had time to pull out of the challenge but proceeded with the most extreme and violent force he could possibly have mustered.

“It is CPFC’s position that “a harsher sanction must be handed down”. CPFC expect that a “clear and unequivocal” signal is sent that this “cannot and must not happen again”.

Roberts reached out to Mateta on the same day.

He told the commission: “I have made a mistake, in a fraction of a second, with terrible consequences for Mr. Mateta, which I deeply regret.

“I was instantly devastated by the incident. I could see that Mateta was injured and receiving treatment…my immediate concern was for him.

“Although I don’t accept that the standard punishment is insufficient, I accept that the challenge was reckless and that the sending off was justified. Again, I am very sorry.”