The Premier League has confirmed that Chris Kavanagh will officiate the highly anticipated match of Liverpool vs Manchester City. This announcement comes as Jurgen Klopp's controversy is recalled, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming game.
Liverpool is set to face Manchester City in a bid to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League by 11 points. The Reds have already widened their gap to eight points following a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Southampton, courtesy of double strike from Mohamed Salah. Meanwhile, Manchester City suffered a fifth consecutive defeat after being outplayed by Tottenham Hotspur at Etihad Stadium.
Liverpool has a challenging week ahead with two crucial matches lined up. They are set to face Real Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday before taking on reigning Premier League champions, Manchester City. These games are among some of the most significant meetings between these teams in recent years.
Spotlight on Match Officials
All eyes will be on referee Chris Kavanagh and his team during these high-stake matches. Assisting him from VAR hub at Stockley Park will be Paul Tierney and Tim Wood while Lee Betts and Darren Cann will be present on the sidelines with Anthony Taylor serving as fourth official.
This match marks Kavanagh's first time officiating a Liverpool game this season since Jurgen Klopp's farewell against Wolves last May. However, it won't be his first encounter with both teams; he was previously in charge during their 1-1 draw at Etihad Stadium last term where Trent Alexander-Arnold scored an equalizer.
Despite overseeing 15 victories out of 20 matches for Liverpool, Kavanagh’s refereeing hasn’t been without controversy - notably when he ruled out Virgil van Dijk's header in their Carabao Cup win over Chelsea, leaving former Liverpool manager Klopp unhappy.
High-Pressure situation for VAR Officials
The pressure will be on Tierney at Stockley Park as every decision will be scrutinized. Any incorrect call could significantly impact the Premier League title race. The Wigan-born official has previously been in the VAR hub for one Liverpool game this season during their 2-0 victory over Aston Villa.
Liverpool aims to inflict further misery on Pep Guardiola's side and make a statement in the Premier League title race after just 13 matches. All eyes will be on Arne Slot's team as they look to pass their latest test following an impressive start from the Dutchman.
