The Premier League has assigned Chris Kavanagh to referee Arsenal’s upcoming clash with Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday, a decision that has stirred frustration among Arsenal fans given Kavanagh’s track record of controversial decisions in matches involving the club.
Less than three months have passed since Howard Webb, the Premier League’s chief refereeing officer, admitted that Kavanagh made an error during Arsenal’s match against Brighton.
That game saw Declan Rice sent off after he tapped the ball away following a whistle, a decision that drew widespread criticism.
Webb’s admission specifically pointed out Kavanagh’s failure to apply consistent standards, especially as Joao Pedro was allowed to kick the ball halfway across the pitch without any booking during the same game.
It was Webb’s belief that Pedro’s action should have been punished, not Rice’s “didn’t have a choice” second yellow card.
Webb, in addressing the inconsistencies, said: “He’s clearly seen Declan Rice commit a foul, then kick the ball away for an opponent that was in the process of taking a free-kick. We’ve messaged very clearly and strongly to the players in pre-season around the importance of not getting involved with the ball once the whistle is gone, not delaying the restart in that way.”
Despite such directives, there remains a perception that the standards are being enforced more stringently when it involves Arsenal players.
For Arsenal fans, Kavanagh’s controversial decisions are not new.
Many still recall his performance in the 2-2 draw against Chelsea, where he chose not to penalise the goalkeeper for taking Gabriel Jesus out at head height in the box. Despite the incident occurring in clear view, Kavanagh gave no foul, and the decision was cleared by VAR, then operated by Liverpool-supporting referee Jarred Gillett.
Similarly, Kavanagh was responsible for awarding a penalty to Newcastle against Arsenal, which was subsequently overturned after review—a further source of frustration for Arsenal supporters who feel that officiating decisions often go against them under Kavanagh’s watch.
Another infamous Kavanagh performance occurred during Arsenal’s clash with Aston Villa in 2021.
Arsenal’s 1-0 loss was marred by defensive mistakes, but Kavanagh’s officiating arguably had a significant impact on the game. Emi Martinez‘s clear foul on Alexandre Lacazette in the penalty box was bafflingly adjudged to be a free-kick to Aston Villa, leaving Arsenal incensed.
Later in the same match, Bukayo Saka was dragged down by Ezri Konsa when through on goal, yet Konsa only received a yellow card, a decision that many felt should have resulted in a straight red, especially when you consider what William Saliba was sent off for recently.
These instances added to the perception that Kavanagh has often applied the rules more leniently against Arsenal’s opponents.
Kavanagh’s history with Arsenal stretches back to his first game involving the Gunners in January 2018, when he officiated Arsenal’s 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace.
However, subsequent fixtures have done little to endear him to the north London club’s fans, who remember a series of inconsistencies, mistakes and missed calls in crucial moments.
Against Fulham this Sunday, Kavanagh will be assisted by Darren Cann and Simon Long on the sidelines, with Andy Madley serving as the fourth official. VAR duties will be handled by John Brooks, with Derek Eaton assisting.
Given Kavanagh’s history of contentious decisions, many Arsenal fans will be watching closely, apprehensive of further decisions that could impact the Gunners’ title race.