Liverpool’s upcoming Premier League clash has been assigned a referee whose past record is unlikely to inspire much confidence among Reds supporters.
The Premier League has released the list of officials for Matchweek Five, confirming that Darren England will take charge of Saturday’s Merseyside Derby at Anfield. According to Tony Scott on X, the Yorkshire official’s appointment raises concerns, particularly due to his track record.
England has officiated 11 Everton games, with the Toffees suffering just one loss during that span. In contrast, Liverpool have only managed one win from five Premier League matches under his supervision.
That lone victory came in a 2-0 away win against Bournemouth back in February. Other results under England’s officiating include a 3-0 loss to Brighton, and draws with Crystal Palace (twice), and Southampton.
This assignment brings back a familiar figure linked to past controversies — most notably the VAR incident against Tottenham, when Luis Diaz had a legitimate goal wrongly disallowed.
England will be joined by assistants Lee Betts and Scott Ledger, with Bobby Madley acting as fourth official. VAR duties will be handled by John Brooks, supported by Akil Howson.
Brooks, too, has a history with Liverpool, having failed to call two clear fouls on Mo Salah during a match against Chelsea last season. That game also saw head coach Arne Slot visibly lose his cool on the sidelines — a moment that later went viral.
Given the stats — one win, three draws, and one loss from five Premier League matches officiated by England — fans are understandably uneasy. Liverpool have taken just seven of a possible 15 points with him in charge.
Supporters will be hoping that Saturday’s derby is decided on the pitch and not influenced by the officials, but England’s record already has many on edge before kickoff.
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