Premier League make Newcastle United official decision after Liverpool controversy

Thomas Bramall has been appointed as match referee for the Premier League clash between Newcastle United and Luton Town on Saturday afternoon (kick-off 3pm).

Bramall - promoted as a Premier League referee in 2022 - has only officiated the Magpies once before, and that was their 2-0 win against Burnley at St James' Park in September where he awarded a penalty to Alexander Isak after Anthony Gordon was fouled by Ameen Al-Dakhil.

The role of a referee is often scrutinised throughout the season but Bramall has mostly avoided any negative coverage, although was in the spotlight in August when he sent off Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister for a challenge on AFC Bournemouth's Ryan Christie.

Liverpool successfully appealed the red card and Mac Allister went on to feature in their 2-1 win at Newcastle seven days later.

Speaking about Mac Allister's dismissal, Reds boss Jurgen Klopp said: ““I think the amount of times I was asked about it shows it’s worth discussing again, which we will probably do,” Klopp said. “I asked Macca and he said, ‘I touched him but not really’. That’s all he told me.

“After the game I saw it back. I think if you have a list of points, what we need to give a red card, besides contact there’s nothing else, no other boxes ticked.

“It’s a decision we all agree if he gives a yellow card VAR would not overturn it and if he gives a red card VAR will not overturn it because contact means it’s not a clear and obvious mistake.

“But now the punishment, 40 minutes with 10 men is already punishment enough. But let’s see, we have to talk to the authorities.”

Bramall will be assisted by Mat Wilkes and Mark Scholes while Michael Salisbury and Akil Howson are on VAR duty. The fourth official is Oliver Langford.