Tottenham fans will not be happy that Michael Oliver has been selected as the referee for the upcoming North London derby.
It will be the first time the two sides have met this season, with Thomas Frank aiming to pick up a memorable win.
Going into Sunday, Arsenal are the overwhelming favourites at the Emirates, with their good start to the season no doubt a factor.
However, Spurs’ task may have just gotten harder as the Premier League announced on 17 November that Oliver had been appointed the referee for Sunday’s derby.
Michael Oliver was previously awful in the North London derby
Going into the match, this is not the first time Oliver has overseen a North London derby.
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The referee took charge of Tottenham’s 3-2 defeat to Arsenal back in April 2024, in what was a dreadful showing.
Oliver was extremely poor in Tottenham’s defeat, making continuous mistakes which were believed to have played a part in Spurs’ eventual defeat.
The referee even missed a blatant later penalty when Ben Davies was brought down by Declan Rice, with VAR having to come to Tottenham’s aid.
Therefore, given his history in the North London derby, Spurs fans will be furious that Oliver has returned.
If a similar performance is produced, Tottenham’s chances of a victory will be vastly reduced in what is a vital clash.
What is Tottenham’s record when Oliver is the referee?
Overall, Tottenham have a decent record when Oliver is in charge of their matches.
Spurs have won 28 of their 52 matches, only losing 13.
This has also seen 90 yellow cards handed out to Tottenham players, while three stars have been given their marching orders for a double booking, and a further two have received a straight red.
Now, Frank will be hoping Oliver has a good game on Sunday as Spurs look to win their first North London derby since 2022.