Premier League Announces Referee for Everton vs Ipswich, Toffees Fans Unhappy
The Premier League has announced the referee for Everton’s upcoming match against Ipswich Town, and it’s a decision that won’t please Toffees fans. Michael Oliver will be the man in the middle, with Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring as his assistants, and Darren Bond as the fourth official. Graham Scott will handle VAR duties, assisted by Sian Massey-Ellis.
This announcement comes on the heels of controversy surrounding referee Craig Pawson’s performance in Everton’s recent match against Newcastle. Dominic Calvert-Lewin was denied a penalty after a challenge from Dan Burn, and VAR’s explanation failed to address the fact that Burn didn’t touch the ball.
Everton manager Sean Dyche and fans alike were unhappy with the penalty call, and Calvert-Lewin expressed his disbelief post-match. The potential three points missed could have significant implications if Everton finds themselves in a relegation battle at season’s end.
Michael Oliver’s history with Everton has been questionable, with several incidents raising eyebrows among Toffees fans. One notable incident was his decision to award Gabriel Jesus’ goal against Everton in May, despite the ball appearing to touch Jesus’ arm below the sleeve.
Additionally, Oliver was on VAR duty during Everton’s match against Bournemouth last season and failed to award a penalty for a blatant trip on Dominic Calvert-Lewin. These incidents have led to concerns among Everton fans that Oliver may not be the best choice for their upcoming match.
Everton fans will be hoping for a fair and incident-free match, but Oliver’s history suggests otherwise. The Toffees are looking to move further away from the relegation zone and will need all three points against Ipswich Town.
Meanwhile, Everton is dealing with another controversy surrounding Jarrad Branthwaite, who has attracted interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils are reportedly willing to pay £80 million for the young defender, but Everton fans are skeptical about the move.
Branthwaite has been nothing short of sensational since breaking into the Everton side, and his performance against Crystal Palace this season showcased his importance to the team. However, an injury has hampered him, and he now has a 50% chance of facing Ipswich Town.
Sean Dyche will be cautious not to rush Branthwaite back, considering the importance of upcoming matches. Michael Keane and James Tarkowski did a solid job last time out against Newcastle, so there will be no real concern from Dyche.
The Manchester club’s interest in Branthwaite has sparked a mixed reaction from Everton fans. Some believe £80 million is a fair price, while others think Branthwaite is worth more. Manchester United’s current state has also led some to question whether the move would be beneficial for the young defender.
Everton fans have expressed their discontent with the referee announcement and Branthwaite rumors on social media. Many have taken to X to voice their opinions, with some questioning Oliver’s ability to remain impartial.
@cattywhites2 said, “I still want a £5m house but that’s not happening either.” @DannyH_95 commented, “Branthwaite will be going to a bigger club than Man United.” @CrawfordTartan stated, “No chance in their current state.” @Moo34242739Gary mentioned, “Why would he want to go to a relegation-threatened team?” @sophefc2023 simply said, “Branthwaite can do better than United.”
The match against Ipswich Town is crucial for Everton, and fans will be hoping for a positive result despite the controversy surrounding the referee appointment. With Branthwaite’s future uncertain and Oliver’s history of controversy, Toffees fans will be watching the match with bated breath.
As the Premier League season unfolds, Everton will need to focus on securing points and moving up the table. The distraction of referee controversies and transfer rumors can’t afford to derail their momentum. With Oliver at the helm, Everton will need to be vigilant and prepared for any eventuality.
The Premier League’s decision to appoint Oliver has raised concerns, but Everton must adapt and overcome. The Toffees have shown resilience in the face of adversity, and their fans will be hoping for more of the same against Ipswich Town.
With the referee announcement and Branthwaite rumors dominating the headlines, Everton’s match against Ipswich Town promises to be an intriguing encounter. Will Michael Oliver’s history with Everton repeat itself, or will the Toffees emerge victorious? Only time will tell.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, Everton fans will be anxiously awaiting the outcome. The Premier League’s decision to appoint Oliver has added an extra layer of complexity to an already crucial match. Can Everton overcome the odds and secure three vital points, or will Oliver’s controversy mar the match?