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Millwall’s Commitment to Player Welfare Amid Award Discussions

As the end-of-season awards ceremony draws near, a statement from Millwall highlights both the club’s achievements and the challenges faced by one of its players, Liam Roberts. The team is dedicated to open communication regarding Roberts’ situation, reflecting on the tremendous support he has received from fans since the incident following the match against Crystal Palace.

The acknowledgment of support emphasizes the vital role it has played for Roberts and his family during a trying period. “Your incredible support for Liam Roberts since the Crystal Palace match has meant the world to him and his family during an incredibly difficult time,” the statement reads.

Fans’ continued backing, particularly through votes for Roberts as player of the season, has not gone unnoticed. However, concerns have been raised within the squad about the implications of such recognition. “There’s concern within the squad that a placed finish for Robbo could unintentionally resurface a lot of the external abuse and negative stories directed at him — issues we as a club have been steadily moving forward from,” they express.

Roberts and his family have faced severe online harassment, including threats that escalated to disturbing levels after the FA Cup tie. “He and his wife received death threats, his name was dragged through the headlines, and we witnessed a teammate go through a nightmare,” the statement poignantly notes.

The team has taken a firm stand against allowing such abuse to resurface. They conveyed their concerns to the Millwall Supporters’ Club, aiming to foster a supportive environment and prevent a recurrence of the distressing experiences that Roberts faced.

At present, Millwall finds itself in ninth place in the Championship, trailing Coventry City, who are seated in the final play-off spot by three points ahead of their match against Blackburn Rovers on Friday.

Source
www.bbc.com