Liverpool fans have raised serious questions about referee Chris Kavanagh after the Reds suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Manchester City at Anfield.
The biggest talking point was Ryan Gravenberch’s sending-off. The Liverpool midfielder received two yellow cards early in the second half, leaving his team with 10 men. Just three minutes later, Erling Haaland broke the deadlock for City. ⚠️
Kavanagh’s decision to dismiss Gravenberch sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning whether the second booking was justified.
The controversy intensified when fans discovered that Kavanagh was born in Manchester. 😱
However, according to the report, the Premier League’s referee appointment rules do not automatically prevent officials from refereeing matches involving clubs from their hometown. Referees are asked about their club allegiances and potential connections before each season.
Kavanagh reportedly supports Droylsden FC, a club competing in the North West Counties League, rather than Manchester City or Manchester United. This is reportedly why he remains eligible to officiate matches involving the Manchester sides.
Despite this explanation, Liverpool supporters remain unhappy with his performance, particularly the decision that left their team a man down against City.
Was Gravenberch’s sending-off justified, or did the referee get it wrong? 🤔👇
