Howard Webb should be in attendance to oversee the referee’s performance when Tottenham and Chelsea clash in the Premier League.
That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that the game on Saturday, 1 November, has the potential for flashpoints between the rivals.
Jarred Gillett has been chosen to referee the game between Spurs and the Blues at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a game which is known for its drama, goals, and fiery atmospheres.
Enzo Fernandez scored the only goal in the last meeting at Stamford Bridge, and with Cole Palmer still sidelined for Chelsea, the Argentine will be needed more than ever by Enzo Maresca.
Tottenham vs Chelsea set to be a Premier League cracker
The scene is set for an exciting clash between Thomas Frank and Maresca’s sides in North London. While no red cards have been shown in the last three meetings, the games have been full of drama.
Previously, Webb has been told to visit Chelsea’s training ground due to their build-up of sending-offs this season, with Malo Gusto the most recent figure to join the list for the Blues.
Maresca was dismissed for celebrating against Liverpool, with Estevao scoring a very late winner, and should any controversial incidents emerge this time around, Webb has been told to watch the game from the stands.
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Keith Hackett tells Howard Webb to attend Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former head of PGMOL said: “I think he should be [at the game]. Where you have potential flashpoints or games that can flare, he should be there. Way back, I was at Old Trafford in the director’s box when they played Tottenham.
“Roy Carroll dropped the ball over the line, and I could see the ball was way over. [Mark] Clattenburg was in the other half, and the assistant referee was by the halfway line.
“Neither had an opportunity to see the incident, but from above, I could see it clearly. When I examined it, that was the start of me going to the Premier League about goal line technology.
“He can be present in case there is a blow-up. Be prepared to go into the dressing room at half-time and full-time, and if there is a controversial decision, he can ask to be talked through the decision.“