Former Sky Sports pundit Richard Keys has struck out at the PGMOL for their decision to appoint Chris Kavanagh as the referee for this weekend’s clash between Manchester City and Liverpool.
The Premier League returns to our screens this weekend following another international break, and a marquee clash between the top two sides Manchester City and Liverpool kicks things off on Saturday afternoon.
Liverpool will move to the top of the table with a victory over the Cityzens, but the buildup to the clash on social media has been clouded by the appointment of Chris Kavanagh as the man in the middle.
This is because Kavanagh was born in Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester – just five miles away from the Etihad Stadium, leaving numerous Reds fans with raised eyebrows.
Premier League referees are not permitted to officiate the team that they support or any of their close rivals, however at this current point in time – it is unknown who Kavanagh supports.
Richard Keys, formerly of Sky Sports, added fuel to the fire – launching a rant towards the PGMOL for their appointment of Kavanagh over on Twitter.
“Why do the @PGMOL do it? Why?” Keys wrote.
“Not for a moment do I think Chris Kavanagh will be anything other than professional at City but what if? What if something goes wrong?
“And in a season like this who’d bet against it? Why put him under the added pressure? Are there no other refs?”
Why do the @PGMOL do it? Why? Not for a moment do I think Chris Kavanagh will be anything other than professional at City but what if? What if something goes wrong? And in a season like this who’d bet against it? Why put him under the added pressure? Are there no other refs?
— Richard Keys (@richardajkeys) November 21, 2023
Kavanagh was previously put under the microscope by Liverpool fans during the 2021/22 season when he missed a Rodri handball during Manchester City’s clash against Everton. Some Reds fans even suggested that this costed Jurgen Klopp‘s side the title, as they finished just a point behind City in second.
His appointment for Saturday’s clash hasn’t been criticised all around however, as some eagle-eyed Liverpool fans have pointed out that they actually have a good record in matches Kavanagh has officiated, winning 13 of the 15 he’s taken charge of.
Looking to bet on the crucial clash at the Etihad on Saturday afternoon? Follow the link for our full list of Manchester City vs Liverpool betting tips, predictions and odds.
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
