The linesman who allowed Robin van Persie’s offside goal
against Chelsea to stand has been left off the list for the next
round of matches.
John Stokes, who failed to raise his flag
against Van Persie for Arsenal’s equaliser in their 2-1 win at
Stamford Bridge on Sunday, will not be on duty at a Premier
League or Football League game at the weekend.
Luiz Felipe Scolari was furious and demanded an apology from the
officials after watching Chelsea’s defeat, claiming Stokes’s
mistake had 'killed' his team.
Van Persie looked a yard offside when the ball was played to him on
the edge of the Chelsea box, but he was allowed to continue and
score.
The Dutchman struck the winner three minutes later, leaving an
angry Scolari to question the judgement of the officials.
The Professional Game Match Officials, the body responsible for
referees and their assistants, meet on Mondays to determine the
appointments of officials for each round of matches.
The Premier League, who speak on behalf of the PGMO, declined to
comment on whether Stokes’ omission is as a result of the Arsenal
game but their silence will lead to speculation that Stokes has
paid the price for his error.
