Anthony Taylor has been appointed as the referee for an upcoming match, with Gary Beswick and Adam Nunn as assistant referees, and John Brooks as the video assistant referee, supported by Richard West. This decision has stirred controversy due to Taylor’s past connections with both Manchester United and Liverpool. Hailing from Greater Manchester, there are concerns among Liverpool supporters about potential bias in Taylor’s officiating.
It’s essential to note that Taylor’s allegiance lies with Altrincham, a National League team, rather than either Manchester club. Despite this, his performance in matches involving Liverpool and United has raised eyebrows. In United’s matches under his officiating, the team dropped points in two games. Similarly, Liverpool has faced challenges in games officiated by Taylor this season, managing only one win out of four matches.
Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, has voiced his discontent with Taylor’s decisions, notably the omission of Ibrahima Konate in a game against Arsenal, which Liverpool lost 3-1. Taylor has overseen two top-flight matches between United and Liverpool, including a goalless draw at Anfield in 2016 and a 5-0 victory for Liverpool at Old Trafford in 2021, during which United’s Paul Pogba received a red card.
Despite officiating over 350 Premier League games since his debut in February 2010, Taylor remains loyal to Altrincham, even holding a season ticket for the team. However, according to rules set by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), referees are prohibited from officiating games involving teams they support or games that could impact their team’s outcomes.
