Today saw the Premier League announce the officials who would be taking charge of domestic games for the upcoming weekend.
Supporters do tend to fear the worst when a certain official is appointed for their side’s game. Just looking at reactions whenever Anthony Taylor takes charge of games at Stamford Bridge suggests they are not big fans of his work.
However, with moments this season that have seen the PGMOL have to apologise to Premier League sides for errors, it is easy to see why there is always an eye on who will be the man in the middle, as well as behind the scenes at Stockley Park.
Those selected to take charge of the West London derby between Chelsea and Brentford though have certainly raised some eyebrows. It will be Simon Hooper who is the referee on the day.
The Englishman has not been seen on the pitch since Tottenham’s 2-1 victory over Liverpool, where a goal scored by Luis Diaz was incorrectly ruled offside.
Chelsea fans on Hooper
The visitors on that day will also point to two red cards they feel were harshly given against their players.
Chelsea supporters are clearly a bit worried that a similar story could crop up when they get back in action at the weekend.
One user said: “This is getting worse and worse.”
Another added: “Typical we get him.”
While referee decisions have felt like they have gone against the Blues for a few seasons now, they may count themselves lucky after the recent draw with Arsenal.
Pundits in the media have questioned the decision to give a penalty for a handball on William Saliba, which eventually led to Cole Palmer giving the Blues the lead from the spot in the first half.
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