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Simon Jordan has branded conspiracy theories based on the choice of referee for Liverpool’s trip to Manchester City as a ‘ridiculous scenario’.
Chris Kavanagh will take charge of the Saturday lunchtime’s crunch clash at the Etihad Stadium – exclusively live on talkSPORT.
Kavanagh’s involvement in Saturday’s fixture has been called into questiongetty
However, Kavanagh’s place of birth has seen some fans call his involvement in the top-of-the-table clash into question.
Kavanagh was born in Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester – just five miles from the Etihad Stadium, angering some Liverpool supporters on social media platforms.
The 38-year-old has been part of a select group of referees to officiate in Premier League since 2017 and despite his close proximity to the Etihad, Kavanagh is not a known Manchester City supporter.
Former Crystal Palace owner Jordan hit out at those questioning Kavanagh’s appointment and backed the Premier League in their decision to appoint him for the fixture.
“I’m assuming they would have done their appropriate checks and balances and understanding who they are putting in place to referee games,” Jordan told talkSPORT.
“If we’re going to make decisions based upon social media then we’re not going to get very far, so I think it’s a ridiculous scenario.
“If you wanted to look into most situations you could find some index into something you might find unpalatable or unfair or disadvantageous to you.”
Kavanagh will be hoping this weekend’s clash passes without a major incident in what has been a challenging period for referees.
PGMOL, who are responsible for officiating across the Premier League, have come under scrutiny of late after a number of contentious decisions involving VAR, in particular.
Guardiola had some words for referee Chris Kavanagh after the defeat at Newcastlesky sports
Jordan hit out at social media conspiracy theorists ahead of Saturday’s clashtalkSPORT
Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola have both become embroiled in exchanges with Kavanagh in the past.
The Manchester City boss was booked in the final stages of his side’s Carabao Cup defeat at Newcastle in September for continuous protests of Kavanagh’s decisions.
Meanwhile, Klopp hit out at Kavanagh who was on VAR duty during a 2-2 draw against Tottenham in 2021 when the on-field referee failed to send off Harry Kane for a robust challenge on Andy Robertson.
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