Ever wonder what (if any) thought goes into the Premier League referee appointments week in and week out? While it’s something of a trade secret, I’ve managed to dig up an old list that seems to still be relevant. While these may not be the only criteria PGMOL use, this list seems pretty comprehensive. The referee’s current form – We saw
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In addition to all the usual appointment news and fun stuff, we had a couple of big stories this week on Play the Advantage. The Wall Street Journal published an article about FIFA’s referee selection process and how it basically screwed at least one referee over, but I had a slightly different perspective… In what may be a regular feature,
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Just for a bit of fun, here’s a cute video compilation that proves that refs have always done dumb things. Some dumber than others. (I’m looking at you, Graham Poll…)
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Oh, how I love Nicola Rizzoli. This guy is the best of the best, both in Italy and internationally. And while he’s much more measured on the international circuit (his 2013 Champions League final was a master class in letting a game flow), he plies his trade in the drama-filled theater that is Serie A. Bless him. Most weeks, he
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Well, no, not really. He’s still kind of a jerk. But the Premier League has decided he won’t be punished for saying this horrible, horrible thing to Southampton captain Adam Lallana during their recent 2-1 defeat at Everton: “You’re very different now you’ve played for England. You never used to be like this.” Um. What? Really, Southampton? Really?! You lodge
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If you love the game of football (“soccer” to you Americans), you either love them or hate them (probably hate them): Referees. For a bunch of guys who spend all their time ruining the game – according to whatever fans are on the losing side – they’re probably the most important person on the pitch. And as we gear up
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