Millwall could face sanctions over alleged homophobic chanting but will escape punishment for 'let him die' chants directed at Jean-Philippe Mateta, it has been claimed.
Crystal Palace star Mateta was taken off on a stretcher in the first half of Saturday's FA Cup tie following a challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts. Referee Michael Oliver sent Roberts off for the challenge, though only after a VAR check.
Palace chairman Steve Parish accused Roberts of "life-endangering" actions after the keeper rushed from his line and caught Mateta with his boot. "That is the most reckless challenge on a football pitch I think I've ever seen, and I think he needs to have a long, hard look at himself, that lad, because he's maybe endangering a fellow professional's life with a challenge like that," Parish told the BBC.
French frontman Mateta received oxygen during a seven-minute delay, before being taken to hospital for treatment on his injuries. During the pause, some Millwall supporters were heard chanting 'let him die,' but it was another chant which might land the club in hot water.
According to The Mail, the 'Let him die' chants do not constitute a breach of rules. However, the same might not apply when it comes to alleged homophobic language directed at Palace left-back Ben Chilwell, who is on loan from Chelsea - with an investigation anticipated.
Millwall's fourth round clash with Leeds United was also marred by chants from sections of the crowd, in that instance in reference to the death of Leeds fans in Turkey in 2000. "The club strongly condemns all forms of football tragedy abuse and is appalled to receive reports of such chanting from a minority at today's FA Cup fixture against Leeds United," a statement from the London club read at the time.
"Both clubs have suffered tragic losses to their respective families in recent history. Chanting about this is entirely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the club or the governing bodies.
"It has no place in football and the club will work closely with Leeds United and authorities to identify those responsible. We all have a duty to ensure Millwall Football Club is represented proudly and responsibly at all times."
Mateta issued an update from hospital later on Saturday, after Palace beat Millwall to book their place in the quarter-finals. Japhet Tanganga's own goal put the Eagles in front, with Daniel Munoz and Eddie Nketiah also netting in a 3-1 win.
""Thank you all for your kind messages," Mateta wrote on Instagram. "I'm doing well. I hope to be back very soon. And stronger than ever. Well done guys for the great job today. I love you. JP."
Palace issued a statement of their own on Saturday night, confirming their top scorer had left hospital. ""We are very pleased to confirm that JP Mateta has this evening been discharged from St George’s Hospital where he received specialist treatment and 25 stitches to a severe laceration to his left ear," it read.
"All scans were clear and JP is feeling well. He will now rest and recuperate over the following days where his progress will be monitored by our club doctor. Thank you to the medical staff at both Selhurst Park and the hospital for their help and professionalism, and for all the wishes of support that JP and the club have received today."
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