The PGMOL have confirmed the appointment of Craig Pawson as referee for Everton’s opening Premier League clash against Chelsea.
The Toffees kick off their 2022/2023 campaign by hosting Thomas Tuchel’s Blues – a game that brings with it fond memories of last season's crucial 1-0 victory that went some way to securing survival.
Saturday’s fixture has been picked for TV by Sky Sports and the Premier League have reacted by appointing the experienced Pawson to take charge, while John Brooks will be in the Stockley Park hotseat in charge of VAR. Marc Perry and Scott Ledger will be on assistant duties, with Graham Scott as the fourth official.
READ MORE: Everton transfer news LIVE - Idrissa Gueye talks, Michy Batshuayi interest, Lewis Dobbin loan
Pawson last took charge of a Toffees game in May, during their 2-1 win away at Leicester City, and was also in charge at Goodison for the dramatic 1-0 win against Newcastle United in which Allan was sent off before Alex Iwobi’s 99th-minute winner.
Everton unsuccessfully tried to appeal the ban, with Frank Lampard left asking: "Did he seriously endanger the player by kicking him on the foot?"
The Sheffield-born referee also took charge of Liverpool’s Community Shield win over Manchester City last weekend, and is considered one of the league’s most experienced officials following the departures of Mike Dean, Martin Atkinson and Jonathan Moss in the summer.
READ NEXT
- Everton announce latest commercial partnership as Fancurve confirmed
- How you can follow Everton and Liverpool Women this season after England win Euro 2022
- Work to strengthen ongoing as Frank Lampard calls for transfer window 'calm'
- What should not be forgotten at Everton after 'lazy' Frank Lampard analysis
- Eight winners emerge from Everton's pre-season fixtures
