The upcoming match between Liverpool and Brighton this weekend has had its match officials confirmed, sparking concern among some fans.
After the conclusion of the international break, Liverpool will resume Premier League action on Sunday with Brighton visiting Anfield.
With Arsenal taking on Manchester City this weekend, Liverpool see an opportunity to reclaim the top spot in the title race if they can win Roberto De Zerbi’s side.
However, Liverpool’s recent record against Brighton is less than stellar.
In their last four meetings with the Seagulls, Liverpool have failed to secure a win, including two defeats and a draw in three encounters last season.
This Sunday’s fixture presents Jurgen Klopp’s team with a chance to improve that record as we approach the final ten games of the league season.
Match Officials for Liverpool vs Brighton
Referee: David Coote
Assistants: Tim Wood, Mark Scholes
Fourth Official: Craig Pawson
VAR and AVAR: Paul Tierney, Dan Cook
As the weekend fast approaches, the Premier League has officially announced the match officials for the 14:00 GMT kickoff. David Coote has been designated as the referee for the upcoming match.
This appointment has sparked discontent among Liverpool supporters, as Coote was notably the VAR official who neglected to advise a penalty for Martin Odegaard’s handball during the Liverpool vs. Arsenal 1-1 draw in December.
Furthermore, the VAR for the Liverpool vs. Brighton fixture will be Paul Tierney, whose history with Liverpool and Klopp has been marked by controversy.
Back in 2021 during a 2-2 draw with Tottenham, the Liverpool boss told Tierney: “I have no problems with any referees, only you.”
In 2023, Klopp faced consequences in the form of a fine and a two-match ban. His remarks insinuated bias on the part of the referee after Liverpool’s 4-3 victory over Spurs in the previous season.
Sharing VAR duties with Klopp’s match will be Dan Cook, who has previous involvement with Liverpool.
Cook notably served as assistant VAR during Liverpool’s loss to Spurs in September. In that match, a goal by Luis Diaz, which was perfectly legitimate, was disallowed due to human error.
As another weekend of matches approaches, there’s a collective hope for a lack of controversial incidents.
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