AFCON 2025
The Premier League has appointed Michael Oliver as the center referee for thos weekend’s blockbuster London derby.
Michael Oliver will be the center referee when Chelsea welcomes fierce rival Arsenal at Stamford Bridge this Sunday.
The 39-year-old Ashinton, Northumberland native has been in the middle of some of the most controversial refereeing decisions this season.
Michael Oliver as the video assistant referee in the Westham v Manchester United comvinced David Coote to review his decision not to the home side a late penalty.
David Coote awardee a last-ditch controversial penalty to the home side after he adjudged Matthijs De Light to have fouled Danny Ings in the box.
Jarrod Bowen’s 96th minute spot-kick secured three points for Westham – the result that led to the sacking of Manchester United’s former manager Erik Ten Hag.
He was also the center referee in the tensed 2-2 draw between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad in September.
Michael Oliver sent off Leandro Trossard for kicking the ball away after initially picking up a yellow card.
Manchester City were also not happy with him because Arsenal scored moments after he called Kyle Walker for a chat but allowed play to restart before walker got back to this position.
Michael Oliver will look to have a good officiating viod of controversy this Sunday when the two London giants meet.
Michael Oliver will be assisted by Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring with Andy Madley named the fourth official. Paul Tierney will be in charge of the VAR, to be assisted by Richard West.
