EFL make Arsenal vs Newcastle United official decision - already issued three-game ban
The EFL has confirmed the match officials for tonight’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg tie between Arsenal and Newcastle United (kick-off 8pm).
Both teams go head-to-head at the Emirates hoping to take an advantage into the second leg at St James’ Park in four weeks’ time. The Magpies have only won once at the Emirates since the stadium opened ahead of the 2006/07 campaign.
Overseeing the fixture is Craig Pawson, who last refereed United’s 2-0 defeat at home to West Ham United in November. Against Southampton and Everton this season, Pawson was heavily involved.
At Goodison Park, Pawson awarded Newcastle a penalty that Anthony Gordon had saved by Jordan Pickford. He later turned down a penalty appeal from Everton after Dominic Calvert-Lewin went to ground under challenge from Dan Burn.
And during the opening day win over Southampton at St James’ Park, Pawson controversially sent off Fabian Schar for an apparent headbutt on Ben Brereton Diaz. Eddie Howe’s side, however, managed to clinch a 1-0 victory via Joelinton’s first-half strike.
As a result, Schar was handed a three-match ban. Speaking after the game, Howe said: “I think it's really harsh on Fabby, although I think we all know that you can't give the referee the possibility to even give the red card. It looks like he has been caught by a well-managed situation. It's something we'll learn from.”
Pawson’s only match in charge of Arsenal so far this season was a 0-0 draw at home to Everton last month. Pawson will be assisted by Ian Hussin and Wade Smith with Tony Harrington as fourth official.
For the first time in the competition this campaign, VAR will be in operation with John Brooks on VAR duty, assisted by Lee Betts.
The EFL has also confirmed a VAR trial which will see the referee make in stadium announcements following any pitchside monitor visits.
"VAR will be in place for this season’s Carabao Cup Semi-Finals, along with the first use of in-stadium VAR announcements in English football,” a statement read. “As part of the trial, referees will announce (over the stadium public address system) the final decision following a visit to the VAR pitchside monitor, or upon the conclusion of factual matters such as accidental handball by a goalscorer or offside judgements. Only the final decision will be announced in the stadium.”