The FA issues a significant ruling on Michael Oliver as Arne Slot faces an extended suspension following Merseyside derby incident.

The FA has made a decision regarding Michael Oliver following Arne Slot’s extended touchline ban.

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Wednesday night with a highly anticipated clash against Newcastle United at Anfield. However, Slot will be absent from the touchline after receiving a two-match suspension for ‘confronting’ referee Michael Oliver following Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Everton.

Slot’s assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, has also been handed a two-match ban, meaning Johnny Heitinga is expected to take charge for the games against Newcastle and Southampton.

Before Slot’s suspension was confirmed, Oliver was appointed as the referee for this weekend’s FA Cup match between Crystal Palace and Millwall. He will be assisted by James Mainwaring and Steven Meredith, with Nick Hopton as VAR, Mark Scholes as assistant VAR, and Michael Salisbury as support VAR. The FA is responsible for selecting referees for the fifth-round ties, with Simon Hooper serving as the fourth official.

In an official statement, the FA confirmed that an independent Regulatory Commission had sanctioned Everton, Liverpool, Slot, and Hulshoff over incidents following the Merseyside derby on February 12. It was alleged that both clubs failed to control their players and staff after the final whistle. Additionally, Slot was accused of acting improperly and using insulting or abusive language towards the referee and an assistant referee.

Slot admitted to the charge and received a two-match touchline suspension along with a £70,000 fine. Hulshoff also admitted the charge and was given a two-match suspension with a £7,000 fine.

Both will be back on the touchline in time for Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final against Newcastle United at Wembley on March 16.