Arsenal vs Hull City: Who is the referee? Premier League match officials confirmed

Arsenal's defence of their Premier League crown continues on Saturday afternoon when they host Hull City at the Emirates.

The Gunners sit three points clear of Manchester City after nine matches, with their victory over Liverpool at Anfield last weekend coinciding with Enzo Maresca's outfit's defeat at home to Brighton. With City not playing until 17:30 on Saturday, when they visit Nottingham Forest, Arteta and his players will know they can move six points clear and put enormous pressure on the Citizens heading to the City Ground.

Thus, there's a lot weighing on the North Londoners' clash with Hull, who have enjoyed their own positive start to the new campaign. The Tigers currently sit 11th, despite failing to win any of their last seven matches.

Sergej Jakirovic's side average 33% of the ball; they like to sit deep and absorb pressure before springing quick counter-attacks. Arsenal could easily find it difficult to breach their compact low block, and this might spark frustration on the pitch from Arteta's men, as well as in the stands.

If the Gunners aren't careful, their irritation could get the better of them, leading to ill discipline. With that said, here’s a look at the Premier League’s pick for the match officials for Arsenal vs Hull.

Who is the referee for Hull vs Arsenal?

The Premier League have announced that Farai Hallam will be the referee in charge of Arsenal's match against Hul City.

Hallam officiated just one of the Gunners' league matches last season - their 2-1 away win at Crystal Palace on the final day of the campaign. His presence on the pitch may bring back happy memories for the Arsenal players and their supporters on Saturday, given that this clash with Palace was when they lifted the Premier League title.

Farai Hallam's record officiating Arsenal

After being released by Stevenage at the age of 18, Hallam got a job at the FA and qualified as a referee to ensure he remained involved in football. Since then, he's risen through the officiating ranks, making his EFL debut in 2023.

However, he only made his Premier League debut earlier this year, when he oversaw Manchester City's game against Wolves in January. Thus, his limited experience in the top flight means the encounter at Selhurst Park in May is the only Arsenal game Hallam has overseen.

He handed the Gunners one yellow card in this match, but no red cards and no penalties.

Farai Hallam's record officiating Hull City

As for Hull, Hallam has officiated two of the Tigers' games, giving them eight yellow cards, no red cards and no penalties in the process.

Who are the assistant referees and VAR?

Alongside Hallam as the referee will be his assistants, Adrian Holmes, Simon Long and Simon Hooper, with the former two running the line and the latter the fourth official.

In the VAR room at Stockley Park, Michael Oliver will oversee the game, with James Mainwaring assisting him.

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