Leeds United are getting ready for a big test this weekend when they take on Tottenham Hotspur at Elland Road.
But before the ball is even kicked, there is already talk about the referees and how they could play a big part in the game.
Leeds Fight Back After Tough Run
It has been a busy few weeks for Leeds since the international break. Daniel Farke’s men had to face three very tricky games in a row.
First came Fulham, where Leeds were beaten in the last minutes. That loss hurt, but it gave the team a spark. They hit back straight away with a massive win over Wolves.
It was their first away win of the season and the first time they scored three goals in one match.
Then came Bournemouth at Elland Road. The Whites looked strong again and managed to hold the Cherries to a 2-2 draw.
Now, the next test is even bigger: Tottenham Hotspur, who are already being talked about as title challengers.
Premier League Confirm Referee Appointments
The Premier League have now confirmed who will take charge of the Leeds v Spurs clash. Tom Bramall will be the main referee, making it his fourth match in charge this season.
He will be supported by Ian Hussin and Andrew Dallison as assistants, while Rob Jones will act as fourth official. On VAR duty will be Jarred Gillett.
Bramall has shown an average of 3.33 yellow cards per game this season and blown for around 23 fouls a match.
That suggests it could be a busy afternoon for both sides if the match gets physical.
Serious Concern Over VAR Choice
The big worry for Leeds fans is the appointment of Jarred Gillett on VAR. Gillett was in the middle of a huge controversy just last week when he overturned a penalty in the Newcastle v Arsenal game.
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The call caused outrage, and many believe he should not be near another big Premier League clash so soon.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke already has reasons to be frustrated with refereeing. Against Bournemouth, he was furious after a soft free-kick was given which led to Antoine Semenyo scoring. Farke said afterwards:
“It’s not a foul for me at Premier League level. We probably would have won without this free-kick conceded.”
Now, with another high-profile referee team in place, Farke will be hoping his side are not on the wrong end of another decision.
Leeds Aim To Shock Spurs
Despite the concern, Leeds went into the game in decent form. They have eight points from their first six matches, sitting above some big names in the table.
Tottenham, meanwhile, come to Elland Road after dropping points to Wolves and then drawing 2-2 with Bodo/Glimt in Europe.
The Leeds players and fans know it will be a tough battle, but with Elland Road rocking, Farke’s men will believe they can take something from the game.
If the referees keep things fair, Leeds may have another chance to upset one of the Premier League’s big guns.
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