Andrew Kitchen: Young Referee Makes Premier League Impact at Old Trafford

Introduction: A New Name in Premier League Officiating

Andrew Kitchen has been confirmed as the referee for West Ham United’s Premier League clash at Manchester United on Thursday, with the Durham native set to take charge of a top-flight fixture for just the fifth time in his career. The 29-year-old’s rapid ascent to Premier League officiating represents a significant milestone for one of English football’s emerging referees. This is only his fifth Premier League assignment, after racking up lots of experience in the EFL, since 2021/22.

Career Progression and Recent Appointments

Kitchen joined the EFL as a match official at the start of the 2021/22 season and went on to officiate 29 games, issuing 69 yellow cards and two reds. The Durham born official spent two years on the National League prior to his promotion to the Select Group 2 (SG2) list of officials, who predominately take charge of Championship matches. The Old Trafford encounter is his third top-flight outing this term, after overseeing Aston Villa’s 2-1 win over Burnley and Chelsea’s 3-0 victory at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Performance Under Scrutiny

Kitchen’s performance at Old Trafford drew mixed reactions. Aged 29 and reffing his fifth Premier League match. Got little wrong. However, controversy emerged regarding a potential second yellow card decision. Former FIFA referee Keith Hackett commented: Whilst I think that Andrew Kitchen had a very good game, I would like him to review the two Wan-Bissaka challenges, particularly the last one. On a yellow card, you put in a reckless challenge, he should have had a second yellow followed by the red.

Significance for English Football

Kitchen’s promotion to the Premier League demonstrates the PGMOL’s commitment to developing young officiating talent. This season, Kitchen has given seven yellow cards in the Premier League and 38 across all competitions. His measured approach to discipline and growing experience at the highest level suggest he could become a regular fixture in England’s top-flight officiating team. For aspiring referees, Kitchen’s journey from the National League to Premier League in just four years exemplifies the pathway available through dedication and consistent performance at lower levels of English football.