Alex MacQuoid
Craig Pawson has been appointed to take charge of Sunday’s Premier League showdown between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield (4:30pm GMT). The Sheffield-born referee will lead a high-profile officiating team as the Reds aim to strengthen their top-four pursuit, while City chase vital points in the title race.
Craig Pawson’s Season Overview
This weekend’s clash marks Pawson’s 14th Premier League match of the season and his 18th across all competitions. He’s been active in the Premier League, Carabao Cup, FA Cup, and Championship, issuing 43 yellow cards, two reds, and awarding two penalties in those appearances.
While Pawson is among the Premier League’s more experienced referees, he has not been assigned as frequently as elite names like Michael Oliver or Anthony Taylor. Still, he has become a familiar figure for both sides this campaign, having refereed Liverpool twice and Manchester City once since December.
Craig Pawson’s Record with Liverpool
Across his Premier League career, Liverpool are Pawson’s most-officiated side. Sunday’s fixture will be his 45th game involving the Reds.
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Matches | 44 |
| Wins | 30 |
| Draws | 7 |
| Defeats | 7 |
| Points per game | 1.79 |
| Penalties awarded to Liverpool | 6 |
| Penalties against | 2 |
| Red cards shown to Liverpool | 1 |
| Red cards shown to opponents | 3 |
Liverpool’s win rate under Pawson sits at 68%, with just one defeat in their last 10 games officiated by him. He tends to let play flow, averaging just over one yellow card per game for Liverpool matches.
Last Time Pawson Refereed Liverpool
The referee’s most recent Reds assignment came during the 1-1 draw with Fulham at Anfield in January. The match saw minimal disciplinary action — one yellow card apiece — though Cody Gakpo received a caution for removing his shirt after a disallowed goal celebration.
Notably, Pawson’s controversial outing in November 2021 remains fresh in fan memory, when Liverpool lost 3-2 at West Ham United. Jurgen Klopp was openly critical of both Pawson and the VAR team for failing to send off Aaron Cresswell and allowing a questionable West Ham opener to stand. Klopp accused the officials of “hiding behind VAR” in his post-match comments.
Craig Pawson’s Record with Manchester City
Pawson has officiated Manchester City 30 times in his Premier League career, producing the following record:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Matches | 30 |
| Wins | 21 |
| Draws | 4 |
| Defeats | 5 |
| Red cards shown to City | 0 |
| Penalties awarded to City | 5 |
| Average yellow cards per game | 1.3 |
Interestingly, Pawson has never shown a red card in a Manchester City fixture. His last City match was the thrilling 5-4 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage in December, often cited as one of the season’s most entertaining games.
Match Officials for Liverpool vs Manchester City
- Referee: Craig Pawson
- Assistant Referees: Timothy Wood and Matt Wilkes
- Fourth Official: Tim Robinson
- Video Assistant Referee (VAR): John Brooks
- Assistant VAR: Blake Antrobus
What to Expect from Craig Pawson at Anfield
Pawson’s refereeing style is generally measured and conservative. He avoids brandishing cards unless provoked by repeated fouls, and rarely interrupts attacking play. However, his past interactions with Liverpool — including Klopp’s post-match criticisms — ensure scrutiny will be high at Anfield.
Statistically, Pawson’s matches average 2.6 yellow cards and 0.1 reds per game this season, slightly below the league average. Expect him to let physical duels go, but VAR (John Brooks) could play a key role in any penalty or red card situations.
Given Liverpool’s intensity and City’s possession dominance, Pawson’s ability to maintain control without halting flow will be crucial in keeping the game balanced and entertaining.
- Also read: Liverpool vs Manchester Manchester Predicted Lineups: Slot vs Guardiola Tactical Breakdown
Verdict
Craig Pawson is a seasoned referee with balanced discipline stats for both sides. His familiarity with Liverpool could lend him authority in managing Anfield’s atmosphere, while City’s clean disciplinary record under him suggests few flashpoints. Expect a well-managed contest unless tempers flare late in the game.