Chelsea fans won’t be happy with Premier League announcement for Tottenham Hotspur

The Premier League returns with a fiery London derby as Chelsea prepare to host Tottenham Hotspur under the lights at Stamford Bridge. Both sides enter this clash desperate for redemption—Chelsea reeling from a narrow 1-0 defeat to Arsenal before the international break, while Spurs look to recover from a surprising 2-0 loss to Fulham.

The stakes couldn’t be higher, with Enzo Maresca’s Blues sitting comfortably in fourth, a full 15 points ahead of Ange Postecoglou’s struggling Tottenham side.

But while the focus should be on the battle between two historic rivals, the appointment of referee Craig Pawson has already sparked frustration among Chelsea supporters. The official’s history with the club leaves little room for optimism, particularly after his controversial role in last season’s dramatic 2-2 draw against Aston Villa.

That unforgettable match saw Chelsea believe they had snatched a late winner through Axel Disasi’s header, only for VAR to intervene. Pawson was sent to the monitor to review a debatable foul in the buildup, ultimately disallowing the goal—a decision that left former manager Mauricio Pochettino fuming.

“The referee is unbelievable, and it’s ridiculous,” Pochettino raged post-match. “Everyone watching felt disappointed. First, he said it was a foul, then went to VAR to confirm.

Two weeks earlier, in the FA Cup semi-final, there was a clear handball he didn’t check. It’s painful—these decisions are damaging English football.”

Pochettino wasn’t alone in his criticism. Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey also slammed the call, arguing that VAR overstepped its purpose.

“I was baffled why VAR got involved—it wasn’t a clear and obvious error,” Halsey said. “Pawson had a perfect view and allowed play to continue. If he thought it was a foul, why not blow immediately? Instead, we saw technology re-refereeing the game, which isn’t how VAR should work.”

Halsey’s critique cut deeper, questioning Pawson’s tendency to rely on VAR as a safety net rather than trusting his own judgment. “He doesn’t make big decisions himself,” Halsey added. “Even when the right call is eventually made, the process undermines confidence in the officials.”

Now, with Pawson set to take charge of another crucial Chelsea fixture, tensions are simmering. The Blues can ill afford another contentious decision to derail their push for Champions League football, while Spurs—despite their underwhelming season—will relish the chance to play spoiler in a hostile environment.

For Chelsea, this match represents more than just three points. It’s an opportunity to prove they can overcome adversity—both on the pitch and in the refereeing decisions that so often shape their fate.

For Tottenham, it’s a chance to reignite their faltering campaign and remind the league they remain a threat, even in transition.

One thing is certain: under the floodlights of Stamford Bridge, with pride, points, and bragging rights on the line, this London derby promises fireworks—both in the stands and, perhaps, in the aftermath of another controversial refereeing call.