Referee confirmed for Man Utd vs Liverpool, and he’s got history in this fixture
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Manchester United are heading to Anfield this weekend for a meeting with Liverpool, and in what’s expected to be a close contest, every small detail could end up making a difference.The idea of playing at Anfield still carries plenty of weight, especially with memories of Liverpool’s 7-0 win over United under Erik ten Hag not that far in the past.But this season has been different for Liverpool. Their early promise has faded, and they’ve now lost three matches in a row heading into this game, while United have managed two wins from their last three.There have been positives for United this season, but a win over Liverpool would mark something Ruben Amorim hasn’t yet achieved.
The referee appointment won’t help the mood at Old Trafford either.Michael Oliver assigned as referee for Liverpool vs Man UtdBig matches often come with added focus on the officials, and United fans will be quick to remember previous decisions that haven’t gone their way.This time around, Michael Oliver has been appointed for the Liverpool fixture – a referee who has overseen more than a few controversial moments in United matches over the years.Photo by TOBIAS SCHWARZ/AFP via Getty ImagesReferee: Michael OliverAssistant Referee: Stuart BurtAssistant Referee: Timothy WoodFourth Official: Craig PawsonVideo Assistant Referee: Darren EnglandThis isn’t likely to sit well with Bruno Fernandes, who’s had his share of run-ins with Oliver in the past. Their history adds another layer to what could already be a tense occasion.Michael Oliver gave Diogo Dalot a second yellow card in 2023One of the biggest refereeing blunders for United in recent memory was back in December 2023, when Diogo Dalot saw red against Liverpool.The decision was made by Oliver to show Dalot a second yellow card for venting his frustration in the form of waving his arm around, a considerable distance from the referee.
MORE MANCHESTER UNITED STORIES READ MORE: Thibaut Courtois shares advice for Senne Lammens and Belgium’s next generation of goalkeepersThe incident occurred after Dalot believed he had won a late throw-in for his team, which replays confirmed he did, but Oliver sent him off anyway.United fans were furious with the decision, as it really made no sense considering how often players get away with more obvious and direct shows of frustration. United will be hoping to avoid any situations like this on Sunday.