Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has firmly dismissed suggestions that match officials show bias towards Manchester United during high-profile fixtures.
The Liverpool complaint that sparked debate
The discussion around refereeing standards intensified after Liverpool lodged an official complaint with the PGMOL following their recent match. The Reds expressed dissatisfaction after Virgil van Dijk's header was disallowed for offside against Andy Robertson, though they didn't allege any foul play in their submission.
This incident has revived longstanding concerns about potential bias, particularly surrounding Greater Manchester-born official Anthony Taylor, who regularly takes charge of crucial North West derbies between the two rival clubs.
Mike Dean's firm rebuttal
Speaking on The Overlap's Fan Debate, the Wirral-born former official addressed the controversy directly. "I get where you're coming from and Anthony [Taylor] is from Altrincham, he has supported them," Dean acknowledged, referencing Taylor's local connections.
However, he quickly countered this argument by pointing out: "Liverpool fans never complained when I officiated them and I'm a Tranmere fan."
Dean emphasised that geographical location shouldn't automatically disqualify officials from handling important matches, stating that "sometimes, unfortunately, the best refs that we have live in certain areas, so there's nothing you can do."
Historical context of the bias allegations
The perception of Manchester United receiving favourable treatment from officials isn't new. The issue gained significant attention back in 2011 when former Liverpool winger Ryan Babel posted a picture of referee Howard Webb in a Manchester United kit following a contentious match.
This social media post resulted in Babel receiving a £10,000 fine, but it highlighted the depth of feeling among rival supporters about potential bias.
Dean defended the professionalism of Premier League officials, insisting that they approach every match with impartiality. "You've got to referee what's put out in front of you, if there's a big call, make a big call," he stated.
He concluded by asserting that "refs aren't afraid of big calls" regardless of which club is involved, emphasising that match officials focus solely on the game rather than external pressures or historical narratives.
