Chelsea fans have gotten used to being officiated by the likes of Anthony Taylor and Michael Oliver over the past few years in the Premier League, however Lewis Smith is set to provide a fresh face for their upcoming game against Burnley.
There have been plenty of occasions this season where the Blues believe they have been wronged by decisions made by the officials.
Chelsea feel like a mistake was made against Leeds, where their rivals’ equalising goal was not disallowed despite the fact that there appeared to be a handball in the build-up.
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Lewis Smith to referee first Chelsea game vs Burnley
Smith is a relatively new name as far as referees go in the Premier League. He has officiated just nine matches in the competition, and none of those have come this season.
Lewis Smith is set to referee his first Chelsea game against Burnley.
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This is set to change now though. As per the Premier League’s official announcement, Smith will be in charge of the game between the Blues and relegation-threatened Burnley.
Adrian Holmes and Simon Long will be the linesmen for the game, while the experienced Taylor will be offering his support from the fourth official role.
Smith is part of the Supplementary Select Group of referees who are still in the early stages of their career, and the Blues have very recent history of being officiated by one of those.
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Chelsea vs Hull was also refereed by Supplementary Group referee
There was another new face on display for Chelsea fans when they took on Hull in the FA Cup fourth round on Friday.
Farai Hallam was in charge and handed the match ball to Pedro Neto after his hat-trick in the 4-0 win against EFL opposition.
By all accounts, Hallam had a very decent showing as the referee, and Chelsea fans should not be concerned that an inexperienced name will be leading their game.
The attention instead will be on Liam Rosenior’s side’s ability to break down what will surely be another stubborn opposition at Stamford Bridge, a task they have not always found easy this season.
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