The Football Association has appointed Michel Oliver to officiate this Friday night’s FA Cup Third Round tie between West Ham and Manchester City.
Born in Ashington, Northumberland the self-confessed Newcastle United fan Oliver was introduced to refereeing by his father, Clive, at the age of 14. He quickly progressed through the ranks and was promoted to the National List of Referees in 2007; he refereed the 2007 Conference National play-off final, becoming the youngest football referee to officiate at Wembley Stadium. In addition he had already become the youngest Football League assistant referee, youngest Football League referee and became the youngest fourth official in the Premier League.
Kevin Nolan was shown a red card by Oliver during the League match between Liverpool and West Ham United at Anfield in December 2013. Nolan later apologised to 400 supporters for his dismissal at a fans forum held at the Boleyn ground saying he was ashamed of his actions.