Liam Roberts: Millwall keeper given six-game ban for Mateta challenge

Roberts faced criticism after the incident with Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parrish telling BBC Sport it was the “most reckless challenge I’ve ever seen” while Eagles boss Oliver Glasner described it as a “terrible foul”.

Millwall head coach Alex Neill defended his player after the game saying his challenge was not deliberate.

The goalkeeper suffered what Millwall described as ‘”disgusting” online abuse after the incident, and in a statement Roberts said he was “devastated by what happened”.

“As soon as I could, I reached out to Jean-Philippe personally to apologise, and I was thankful to hear back from him that evening that he was OK and reassured me not to worry,” Roberts said.

“I am devastated by what happened. I unequivocally accept the red card as awarded and accept my punishment.

“Furthermore, it has been extremely unpleasant to observe suggestions that I intended to harm a fellow professional. I have categorically never stepped onto a football pitch with the intention of hurting anyone.

“Misleading articles and comments have resulted in an unthinkable amount of abusive messages and threats towards my family and I.

“To the footballing community who know me and reached out with support through this tough time, thank you, I appreciate every single message.”