Premier League remove Leicester-supporting referee from Tottenham’s clash with Stoke

Well, this is a new one.

Kevin Friend will no longer be in charge of Tottenham's Monday night clash against Stoke, after outraged Spurs fans pointed out that the official lives in Leicester and admits to being a supporter of the Premier League leaders. The Professional Game Match Officials Ltd don't pick Friend to referee matches involving Leicester because of his allegiance to the club, but have been forced into a rethink about next week's fixture because of the impact it could have on the title race. Leicester are currently seven points ahead of second-placed Spurs, and PGMOL boss Mike Riley has replaced Friend with Neil Swarbick (from Preston).

"Kevin Friend, initially selected for the game, is from Leicester and has attended matches at Leicester City in a personal capacity," a statement explained.

"Given the context of this match, it was felt unnecessary to add extra scrutiny on the refereeing appointment."