Referee Appointed for Everton vs Brentford, Having Previously Upset Goodison Park Fans

Sean Dyche’s Everton earned a point against West Ham United before the international break but suffered a disappointing loss to relegation contenders Southampton the previous week.

This weekend’s clash is shaping up to be crucial, as the pressure on Dyche continues to mount amid growing fan discontent.

Some Everton supporters have called for Dyche to be sacked, with Brentford’s Thomas Frank being touted as a potential replacement.

Goodison Park is set to host a tense atmosphere, and the announcement of the match officials has only added fuel to the fire.

Chris Kavanagh to Officiate Everton vs. Brentford

The Premier League has confirmed that Chris Kavanagh will referee this weekend’s match at Goodison Park, with James Mainwaring and Akil Howson as linesmen, Anthony Backhouse as fourth official, and Matt Donohue and Gary Beswick overseeing VAR.

Kavanagh’s history with Everton has not been without controversy.

He was on VAR duty when Manchester City’s Rodri escaped a handball penalty against Everton in February 2022—a decision that left Everton in a precarious position as City won 1-0.

Given this history, Kavanagh’s return to Goodison may not be warmly welcomed by the home crowd.

Kavanagh’s Record with Everton

Kavanagh has officiated several Everton games, but the Toffees haven’t had much luck under his watch.

Notably, he has shown three red cards against Everton throughout his career.

His most recent Everton fixture was a goalless draw against Crystal Palace in the FA Cup earlier this year.

Before that, he oversaw another goalless draw, this time against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League.

Everton will be hoping for a change in fortunes under Kavanagh’s officiating as they seek a vital win to ease the growing pressure on Dyche.