Ashington-born referee Michael Oliver will continue to officiate in the coming weekend's Premier League fixtures despite the controversy over the red card he handed out to Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly on Saturday.

The official - widely regarded as one of the best referees in the game - came under huge criticism following the decision to send off the Gunners' left-back following a cynical challenge in their 1-0 win over Wolves. VAR opted against advising him to take a second look, which angered Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta and prompted outrage from pundits and fans.

The PGMOL have had to issue a statement following abuse and threats that Oliver received in the aftermath, while he has had plenty of support this week, with many feeling the reaction in some quarters went too far. There were even bizarre conspiracy theories over Oliver's support of Newcastle United, with Lewis-Skelly now set to miss next week's Carabao Cup semi-final second leg with the Magpies.

READ MORE: Newcastle United set to say emotional goodbye to talented youngster despite impressing Eddie Howe

READ MORE: Newcastle United have golden chance to sign striker Alan Shearer loves in no-risk deal

Now he has had the ultimate backing from the Premier League, with the 39-year-old in charge of Saturday's relegation showdown between Ipswich Town and Southampton and Portman Road. The VAR at Molineux, Darren England, will also have a top-flight game, overseeing Bournemouth vs Liverpool.

In a further sign of the league's faith in Oliver, he will also be in charge of the rescheduled Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on February 12..

Yesterday, PGMOL’s statement condemned any form of abuse towards officials, stating: "We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal fixture. No official should be subject to any form of abuse, let alone the abhorrent attacks aimed at Michael and his family over the past 24 hours.

"The police are aware, and a number of investigations have commenced. We are supporting Michael, and all those affected, and are determined to tackle this unacceptable behaviour. Sadly, this is not the first time a match official has been forced to deal with threats in recent times. We will continue to support all investigations."

Newcastle United's Premier League game with Fulham at St James' Park this Saturday will be officiated by Chris Kavanagh. He was last on Tyneside for the 2-0 Carabao Cup win over Chelsea, and also refereed the 2-1 win at Wolves earlier this season.