Craig Pawson will be the man in the middle for Newcastle United's televised clash at West Ham this weekend. The announcement comes days after the controversial VAR call which denied the Magpies a goal in their goalless draw with Crystal Palace.
Michael Salisbury initially allowed the goal to stand for the hosts after Tyrick Mitchell inadvetertly deflected the ball into his own net in bizarre circumstances. However, the referee was encouraged to review the decision by VAR Lee Mason and overturned the decision despite the full-back's push on Joe Willock.
The PGMOL later reportedly accepted Salisbury's decision along with the controversial decision to rule out West Ham's equaliser at Chelsea were both mistakes. Both decisions have come under the spotlight in recent days, with Eddie Howe insisting his side had a 'perfectly good' goal ruled out.
READ MORE: Lee Mason dropped as VAR for this weekend's Premier League fixtures after Newcastle row
Mason has not been selected for VAR duty for the upcoming round of Premier League fixtures. Instead, it will be Paul Tierney who will fulfill the role for the Magpies' trip to the London Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Pawson will be in charge for his ninth match of the season, but this will likely be his most scrutinised appearance of the campaign so far given the recent controversies for both sides. Scott Ledge and Marc Perry have been named as assistant referees, Anthony Taylor will act as fourth official, while Tierney will be assisted as the VAR by Adam Nunn.
READ NEXT
Manager reveals disappointment at Newcastle sending players 'four or five hours' down the road
The wonderkid and 'outstanding' talent which offer early transfer hint of Newcastle's January plan
Graeme Souness and Simon Jordan on disallowed Newcastle goal and VAR debate
VAR admission gives Newcastle United little comfort as Eddie Howe and Amanda Staveley blast decision
Gary Neville defends 'very good' referee standards after being asked Newcastle VAR question
