Aston Villa's Premier League return against Leeds United this weekend will be officiated by a referee at the centre of a major VAR storm earlier this season.
Controversial Appointment for Crucial Clash
Rob Jones has been appointed as the referee for Sunday's match at Elland Road, a decision that will raise eyebrows after his high-profile error in Chelsea's match against Fulham. Jones wrongly disallowed a goal by Fulham's Josh King after a VAR review, a decision that was later widely condemned.
The controversy has followed Jones into this weekend's fixture, where Unai Emery's Aston Villa will be looking to continue their impressive form. Villa currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, just one point off the top four, following their emphatic 4-0 victory over AFC Bournemouth before the international break.
Former PGMOL Chief Delivers Scathing Verdict
Keith Hackett, the former head of PGMOL, did not hold back in his criticism of Jones's performance. Speaking to Football Insider, Hackett stated: "Oh dear, oh dear! What is happening to the quality of our officiating? This is not a foul, it is not a careless challenge, and the Fulham goal should have stood."
He went even further, suggesting that in his time as boss, he would have effectively banned Jones and VAR official Michael Salisbury from games. "I think I'd have said to them, 'you're away for a month, I'm not putting you in front of any game,'" Hackett revealed, adding his concern that current sanctions for such errors are not strong enough.
Villa Aim to Maintain Momentum
For Aston Villa, the focus remains on their Champions League pursuit. After missing out on the final day last season, Emery's side are determined to secure a top-four finish. While key attackers Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins have struggled for goals recently, players like Donyell Malen and Emi Buendia have stepped up, proving to be unsung heroes in the campaign so far.
This match also presents an opportunity for Villa to assess their squad ahead of the January transfer window, with loan players Jadon Sancho and Harvey Elliott facing uncertain futures at the club.
The stage is set for a tense encounter at Elland Road, with all eyes now on how the appointed referee will handle the pressure following recent events.
