Manchester United fans will have bitter memories of the referee who has been appointed for the West Ham clash.
Michael Carrick is looking to make it five wins in a row to kickstart his time as the interim head coach of Manchester United, but his former club West Ham are standing in his way.
United are targeting Champions League qualification this season, and a win at the London Stadium would lift the Red Devils up to third ahead of Aston Villa’s match on Wednesday.
Are you confident Man Utd will win vs West Ham and end the losing streak at the London Stadium?
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Carrick has got his tactical setup spot on for his first four matches, but he will also need luck on his side to pick up a fifth successive win. Statistically, though, United have been the unluckiest club in the division.
The latest referee appointment for the West Ham clash certainly doesn’t feel like a lucky one for United, especially after one decision made earlier this season.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty ImagesReferee appointment for Man United vs West Ham
The Premier League have confirmed that Simon Hooper will take charge of Tuesday’s match at the London Stadium.
Craig Pawson has been selected for VAR duties.
It will be the fourth United match this season that Hooper has officiated, and the Red Devils are yet to win with him as the match referee in 2025/26.
Simon Hooper sent off Man United youngster Shea Lacey
Shea Lacey has enjoyed a brilliant breakthrough with the United first-team this season, but he was left in tears the last time that Hooper refereed the Red Devils.
United were knocked out of the FA Cup by Brighton last month and Hooper made headlines for all the wrong reasons by choosing to show a red card to Lacey in the final minutes.
What is your opinion on Shea Lacey being sent off vs Brighton?
Harsh refereeing or a silly mistake from the youngster?
Photo by PETER POWELL / AFP via Getty Images
Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg disagreed with Lacey’s red card, suggesting that Hooper could have handled the situation better.
READ MORE: Shea Lacey sends heartfelt apology after being sent off for Man United vs Brighton
Interim boss Darren Fletcher was outraged at Hooper for the decision, branding it “ridiculous” in his post-match comments.
“Shea Lacey’s yellow card is ridiculous compared to the fouls we had on us all game. Ultimately, then the lad makes a mistake and is sent off,” Fletcher said.
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