Anthony Taylor has been confirmed as the referee for Newcastle United’s next game against Manchester United.
The international break is almost over, meaning the disappointment of club football edges closer for Toon fans.
The Magpies have had a woeful start to the season. They have failed to win any of their first four games in all competitions – four games that were very much winnable.
Instead, Newcastle have one point in the Premier League and have been knocked out of the Carabao Cup.
On top of that, fans have turned on Steve Bruce, who recently jetted off to Portugal.
Things aren’t about to get any easier for Newcastle, whose next game is at Old Trafford.
Not only that, but they’ll be facing a Manchester United side who are welcoming back Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s a box office affair, with tickets being sold for huge prices on resale websites. All this to see Bruce’s Mags…
Anthony Taylor to referee Manchester United game
Now the referee has been appointed, and Toon fans will be wondering if they’re ever going to catch a break.
Taylor, who is from Greater Manchester, has officiated this fixture multiple times in the past. And on multiple occasions he’s given big decisions to the Red Devils.
In March 2015, Taylor was the referee as Man United scored late to win 1-0 at St James’ Park. However, he failed to award the Magpies a stonewall penalty in the first half after Chris Smalling wiped out Emmanuel Riviere in the box.
In October 2018, Taylor was the man in the middle once again – this time at Old Trafford. Rafa Benitez’s side were 2-0 up away from home, and should have had the chance to make it three from the spot. But just like three years earlier, Taylor failed to make the correct decision as Man United went on to win 3-2.
Realistically, it doesn’t matter who the referee is. But this feels like a perfect storm that is leading to disaster for Newcastle.
No new signings. Team bang out of form. A manager on holiday who fans don’t want. The returning Cristiano Ronaldo. Now Anthony Taylor calling the shots.
If we get anything at Old Trafford on Saturday it will be a miracle.
Newcastle fans despair at referee choice for Manchester United game
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