Anthony Taylor's appointment as referee for Sunday's Premier League clash between Manchester City and Arsenal should not be seen as controversial, according to former Premier League referee Graham Scott. Taylor, who hails from the Greater Manchester area, has previously faced scrutiny when officiating matches involving Manchester clubs.
Scott explained that Taylor is a genuine supporter of non-league side Altrincham, not Manchester City or Manchester United. 'His support for his home-town club Altrincham is genuine, not convenient, and he has no allegiance to either City or United,' Scott told The Athletic. Referees must declare their club allegiance to the PGMOL and are barred from officiating games involving their own team or its rivals.
Altrincham president Grahame Rowley confirmed Taylor's long-standing support for the club. 'Anthony has always been an Altrincham fan. Even now, he gets a season ticket every year, despite the fact he can't go to all the matches,' Rowley said. 'People around here always ask if you're a Red or a Blue. He's actually a great advocate for non-League football and should be praised, not criticised.'
Taylor, one of the Premier League's top officials, has already taken charge of matches involving both City and United this season. He is one of two English referees selected for the 2022 World Cup. Scott added that Taylor's appointment for the title showdown was expected given his stature and recent form, and that he was kept away from both teams' recent fixtures to prepare.
