Football News

The loyalties of Premier League referees have been thrust into the spotlight following a contentious statement from Nottingham Forest after their defeat to Everton.

In the wake of their 2-0 loss at Goodison Park, Forest launched a blistering critique, hinting at concerns over Stuart Atwell, the designated VAR, and his alleged support for relegation rivals Luton. As the debate rages on, with the league and FA anticipated to charge the club with misconduct, questions about refereeing appointments continue to linger.

This season has seen 27 referees, including six outside of the PGMOL Select group, officiate a Premier League match. Here's what we know about which clubs these officials support, where they hail from, and which teams they're prohibited from overseeing, reports the Daily Star (via the Mirror).

Sam Allison — Chippenham, Wiltshire: A ref who was actually a former footballer following spells at Bournemouth, Bristol City, Exeter and Swindon. An EFL regular, he has taken charge of two Premier League games this season, with neither involving Bournemouth.

Stuart Attwell — Warwickshire: The man at the centre of last weekend's controversy due to his alleged allegiance to Luton.

Peter Bankes — Liverpool: It's unclear who he supports but he is not involved in Liverpool or Everton matches.

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Samuel Barrott — West Riding, Yorkshire: It's unclear where his allegiances lie.

Darren Bond — Wigan: A supporter of his hometown club, currently in League One, Bond isn't involved in matches involving Liverpool and Everton.

Thomas Bramall — Sheffield: Naturally, he doesn't officiate matches involving either team in the Steel City.

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Stuart Atwell Liverpool