Preston born Neil Swarbrick will be the man in charge of the Charlton v Millwall game on Saturday.
Swarbrick is vastly experienced and the 47-year-old was appointed to the Elite List of referees who officiate at Premier League matches in 2011.
Swarbrick’s appointment may be regarded as a lucky omen by Millwall fans, as their team have a good record when he has been in charge of matches involving their team. Addicks fans may be less confident though.
He was the referee when the Lions beat Aston Villa at the New Den in the FA Cup earlier this season and he has taken the South London derby fixture before. Swarbrick officiated when Charlton lost 4-0 at Millwall in 2010.
He was also in charge of Charlton’s play-off game against Swindon at The Valley in May of that year. Though Charlton won the match 2-1, they were elimimated on penalties. Ironically, Swindon went on to lose the final to the Lions. Swarbrick red carded Swindon’s Gordon Greer and Charlton’s Miguel Llera on that game at The Valley.
The following season, Swarbrick returned to The Valley when Brighton thumped the Addicks 4-0. It has not all been bad news for Charlton though, Swarbrick was the man in the middle at Hillsborough last season when Johnnie Jacksons spectacular free-kick earnt the Addicks all three points.
The Preston whistler’s recent games include the FA Cup replay at Stamford Bridge between Chelsea and Brentford and Manchester United v Norwich at Old Trafford.
His big game experience should help defuse any potential flashpoints on the pitch. Experienced Football League referee, Darren Drysdale, will be the fourth official.