An official who was dropped over a Spurs penalty controversy has been named as the referee for the West Ham clash.
Fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham clash in the Premier League on Thursday night with plenty at stake.
A West Ham win would see David Moyes’ side go just three points off Spurs in the race for the European places.
Tottenham could – depending on results elsewhere – move up to fourth with a first win in five games.
There is no love lost between Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham. And clashes in this particular London derby are often feisty and eventful.
It will undoubtedly need a strong set of officials. But a relatively inexperienced man has been put in charge of the game instead.
The official who was dropped over a Spurs penalty controversy has been named as the referee for the West Ham clash.
Michael Salisbury has been appointed as ref for West Ham’s trip to north London to face Tottenham having only been part of the Select Group of Referees since last season.
Salisbury has also only officiated six Premier League matches so far this campaign.
Spurs fans may remember Salisbury well and the reason for that will concern some Hammers fans.
PGMOL chief was forced to apologise after blunder let Spurs off hook:
Because he was dropped from Premier League duty towards the end of last season after he failed to recommend a review for a clear Brighton penalty against Tottenham.
It proved costly too as Brighton lost 2-1 to Spurs, forcing PGMOL chief Howard Webb to apologise to the Seagulls for Salisbury’s error after the game.
Apologies will be worthless to West Ham if any repeat costs them at their bitter rivals.
West Ham fans may remember Salisbury from their recent 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest.
John Brooks has been announced as the Video Assistant Referee for Tottenham vs West Ham. He has refereed 10 Premier League matches this campaign, including West Ham’s 3-1 home win over Chelsea in August.
Tottenham Hotspur vs West Ham has the rather unusual kick-off time of 8.15pm on Thursday and is being shown live on Amazon Prime.