Martin Atkinson has been announced as the man in the middle for Newcastle’s Premier League opener against Arsenal, and it’s safe to say, the news hasn’t gone down well.
The 48-year-old was in charge of the Magpies’ first game of the 2017/18 season, with Tottenham edging out a 2-1 win over Rafael Benitez’s side.
This time, Steve Bruce will be the man in the home dugout at St James’ Park, with Atkinson, who is regarded as one of the more experienced referees, again in charge on the field.
Multiple Newcastle supporters were quick to react to the appointment, claiming the Gunners now have an advantage ahead of Sunday’s meeting.
Twitter: @NUFC @Arsenal @premierleague Give Arsenal the 3 points now (@DyerJak)
Twitter: @NUFC @Arsenal @premierleague PENALTY ARSENAL (@hoylez87)
Twitter: @NUFC @Arsenal @premierleague Never been a good ref for Newcastle and the only consolation is he is not as bad as Marriner (@Baberton33)
Twitter: @NUFC @Arsenal @premierleague Already 0-1 arsenal (@AdamCam70223591)
Read Newcastle verdict
Atkinson has taken charge of 36 Premier League games involving Newcastle during a 13-year period.
The Magpies have won 15, drew nine and lost 12, not a bad record overall.
Atkinson has also sent three Newcastle players off during those encounters, and Magpies fans will be hoping the main in the middle isn’t at the centre of attention come Sunday.
