Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his relief at the decision to overturn Myles Lewis-Skelly's red card from their match against Wolves, but has strongly criticised the abuse aimed at referee Michael Oliver.

The Gunners were incensed when Oliver sent off the 18-year-old left-back for "serious foul play" after a challenge on Matt Doherty during Saturday's game at Molineux.

Despite not being the last man and the incident occurring in Wolves' defensive third, Lewis-Skelly was shown a red card rather than a yellow, a decision that VAR upheld. Arteta had previously voiced his anger over the decision, suggesting it was so clear-cut that an appeal might not even be necessary.

Just before Arteta was due to speak, the FA announced that Arsenal's appeal had been successful and Lewis-Skelly's three-match ban was rescinded. Ahead of their Champions League clash with Girona, Arteta said: "Yeah, obviously really happy that the decision has been made and Myles is going to be available for us."

However, following the match, which Arsenal won 1-0, referee Oliver was subjected to a barrage of abuse from fans, prompting condemnation from the Premier League and PGMOL, as well as a police investigation.

The official, who has reportedly received threats towards him and his family, is now under police protection and will not officiate Arsenal's upcoming match against Manchester City.

When questioned about the threats directed at Oliver, he responded: "The same, every time I talk about that topic, a player a coach, it doesn't matter. We have to try hard to eradicate it from the game. To everybody in football. It certainly damages our sport. So lets get it out."

The decision to send off Lewis-Skelly has been widely criticised by pundits, including by former Chelsea star Pat Nevin who expressed his shock, stating: "Myles Lewis-Skelly is only 10 yards outside the opposition's box. It must be for violent conduct, but that doesn't look like violent conduct. It's a cynical trip. I have never seen that in my life. I am stunned by a red card."

This article originally appeared on Mirror