Wolverhampton Wanderers have been dealt a surprising blow with the announcement that referee John Brooks will take charge of their upcoming Premier League clash against Fulham at Molineux. This appointment comes just weeks after Brooks was at the centre of a major VAR controversy that directly cost Wolves points.
History Repeats Itself at Molineux
The Premier League's decision has raised eyebrows across English football, particularly given the recent history between Brooks and Wolves. During their 1-1 draw with West Ham United earlier this month, Brooks served as the VAR official and was responsible for overturning a first-half penalty awarded to Wolves.
Max Kilman's late headed goal was then chalked off following a VAR review for an offside call against Tawanda Chirewa, who was deemed to be blocking West Ham goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski's view. The decision sparked outrage at Molineux and left manager Gary O'Neil visibly frustrated.
Controversial Track Record Continues
This isn't the first time Brooks has been involved in contentious decisions affecting Wolves this season. Back in September, he was the on-field referee when Wolves were denied a clear penalty in their match against Luton Town at Kenilworth Road.
The latest appointment means Brooks will now be the man in the middle for Wolves' crucial home fixture against Fulham on Saturday, 27th April. He'll be supported by assistant referees Lee Betts and Akil Howson, with Darren Bond serving as the fourth official.
VAR Drama Takes New Twist
Adding to the intrigue, Jarred Gillett has been assigned as the VAR official for the Fulham encounter, with Simon Long as his assistant. This creates an interesting dynamic given the recent VAR controversies surrounding Wolves matches.
The timing couldn't be more sensitive for Wolves, who sit 11th in the Premier League table with 43 points. With safety mathematically secured but European qualification looking increasingly unlikely, every point matters as the season reaches its climax.
Fulham, currently 13th with 39 points, will provide tough opposition in what promises to be a tense atmosphere at Molineux, where fans will be watching every refereeing decision with heightened scrutiny.
