Referee Steve Bennett has been ruled out of Wigan's Lancashire
derby with Liverpool on Saturday - at the request of Chris
Hutchings' club.
Bennett is being replaced by Mark Clattenburg after Wigan pointed
out he had been at the centre of their controversial defeat at
Newcastle two weeks ago.
The official reported Wigan to the FA for failing to control their
players. They were furious Kevin Kilbane was sent off.
And, although Wigan pleaded guilty to the charge, they cited
'mitigating circumstances' which included Bennett's attitude
towards them during and after the match.
The Latics were then stunned to find out Bennett was down for the
Liverpool game at the JJB Stadium.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have been boosted ahead of next Wednesday's
Champions League clash with Marseille after the French club sacked
their coach Albert Emon.
He has been replaced by former PSV Eindhoven boss Eric Gerets.
Marseille chief Pape Diouf said: "Our team needs a fresh
start."
