Chelsea fans head into the PL clash vs Aston Villa with fresh referee worries after a familiar name was confirmed for the fixture.
Fans Uneasy After Referee Decision For Chelsea vs Aston Villa Game
Chelsea have had their share of tense moments with match officials this season. No, the appointment for their next game has again caught their eyes. The Premier League confirmed Stewart Attwell will referee the December 27 clash between Chelsea and Aston Villa. This game is carrying a huge weight in the top four race.
Although, the Blues have benefited from a few key calls this season. However, Attwell’s record with the club tells a different story. Enzo Maresca’s side have won just 7 of the 26 matches he was in charge. That is a stat that rarely sits well with the fans.
What makes this appointment more controversial is that Attwell was involved in a major refereeing mistake during a Chelsea’s match against Brentford. The Blues believe the equalizer from the Bees should’ve been ruled out for offside. But, Attwell seemed fine with the decision. At the end, the game ended in a 2-2 draw. That error still lingers in the minds of fans who feel it changed the tone of the match.
With high pressure and small margins, any past mistake becomes part of the talk. That is especially when league positions are on the line.
Top Four Pressure Grows With Maresca Sidelined
The timing of this decision adds another layer of tension. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca is suspended for the Villa match. That leaves the Blues without their main voice on the touchline. Against an in-form Villa side, discipline and clarity will be key.
For now, Chelsea’s focus must remain on performance. But, fans will watch closely and hope history does not repeat itself.
Author’s Opinion:
Referees should be trusted, but past errors are hard to ignore. Chelsea must stay focused and settle the game with football alone.
As featured on Chelseanews.com