Referee changed ahead of Sheffield Wednesday v Sheffield United derby clash
The referee for Sunday’s Steel City derby has been changed.
Indications from the PGMO earlier this week had suggested that Bobby Madley was set to take the clash, with David Williams and Conor Brown as his assistants and David Webb stationed as fourth official. But, as can often be the case, the appointment was amended in midweek and Webb will now take charge. Oli Langford will take up the role of fourth official in his place.
Webb is a hugely experienced official who graduated to the EFL in 2008. He is no stranger to either club, having taken 27 of their matches apiece. In 2019 he drew public criticism from Blades boss Chris Wilder for what was described as an ‘astonishing’ performance in a 1-1 draw with Millwall - though Wilder also praised his efforts in letting a Yorkshire derby against Leeds United flow last season.
His sole red card to a Wednesday player was in Tony Pulis’ first match in charge back in November 2020, with Josh Windass sent off after just 17 minutes in a 1-0 defeat at Preston North End. He also was referee on the night of the 2023 League One semi-final miracle success over Peterborough United.
Wakefield-based Huddersfield Town fan Madley, who has previously refereed Wednesday on seven occasions and United twice, has not been appointed to another game this weekend. He has also been known to referee friendlies and behind-closed-doors matches in the city, including Liam Palmer’s Owls testimonial last summer. As is routine policy, the reasons for the switch have not been disclosed.
There are a number of reasons referees can be switched, including injury, illness and the declaration of a personal conflict of interest in any match. These can range from loved ones supporting either team involved to business interests linked to ‘any member of the club’s board of directors, management, players, or staff (whether permanent or temporary).’
Guidance on the EFL website states: “Having assessed eligibility for appointment in accordance with the criteria set out above, the appointment of the officiating team for each match will be made by each group’s respective management team at their discretion.
“All appointments are subject to oversight from the PGMO Chief Refereeing Officer, who may vary any appointment at his/her discretion. In exercising their discretion the management teams and the PGMO Chief Refereeing Officer will take into account a range of practical, operational and performance considerations.”