LEEDS, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 16: Detail view of the Leeds United club badge on the corner flag prior to the Premier League match between Leeds United and Newcastle United at Elland Road on December 16, 2020 in Leeds, England.The match will be played without fans, behind closed doors as a Covid-19 precaution. (Photo by Rui Vieira - Pool/Getty Images)
On the evening of November 24, Leeds United fans were fuming. The Whites had failed to beat struggling Rotherham United – and referee Oliver Langford was right at the centre of fans’ criticism.
It was a challenge from former Leeds defender Lee Peltier that earned criticism from Elland Road fans. A dangerous, knee-high tackle in the penalty area that was completely missed, with Dan James the victim.
Speaking after the match, Daniel Farke said that it was a “clear” penalty – and that Langford had made a mistake. Not only that, but he reported that James’ shin was bleeding after the unpunished challenge.
Langford is the man in the middle again tonight, his fourth game involving Leeds tonight. It also includes the Carabao Cup penalty shootout defeat to Salford City, but also the 3-0 away win over Cardiff City.
A referee that is yet to officiate in the Premier League and has reffed 20 of his 24 games this season in the Championship. Leeds will be desperate to get back to winning ways after a 1-1 draw at Huddersfield.
Oliver Langford appointed referee for Leeds clash against Stoke
Stoke come into the match having earned a brilliant 2-0 win over Middlesbrough on Saturday, with new manager Steven Schumacher now 14 games into his spell as boss. They sit in 22nd, as things stand.
But the bottom of four sides on 38 points. Leeds have to get a win to keep the pressure on at the top and Stoke need a win for survival. Hopefully, Langford avoids similar controversy, this time around.
Leeds will be without both Jamie Shackleton and Jaidon Anthony for the clash, while a late call will be made on left-back Junior Firpo – who complained of a calf injury after the draw on Saturday afternoon.
