Arsenal return to Premier League action on Wednesday evening when they visit Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex.
The Gunners will be looking to make it three wins in a row after easing past Tottenham Hotspur and narrowly beating Chelsea in their last two fixtures. Mikel Arteta’s side were impressive in their victory in N17, but were much less convincing against the Blues; the Spaniard will hope his team replicates their performance from the former London derby.
Chasers Manchester City remain five points behind Arsenal, although Pep Guardiola’s team have a game in hand and are currently on a run of six consecutive wins in all competitions. The Citizens host Nottingham Forest on Wednesday, in a clash that coincides with the Gunners’ game on the south coast.
In the reverse fixture between Arsenal and Brighton back in December, Arteta’s men overcame Fabian Hurzeler’s side in a narrow 2-1 win, courtesy of a long-range strike from Martin Odegaard and an own goal from Georginio Rutter. While the Seagulls made things nervy in the closing stages at the Emirates, it was a largely serene performance from the Gunners, with few moments of contention to rile either bench up.
Arteta will hope another tranquil affair ensues on Wednesday. With that said, here’s a look at the Premier League’s pick for the match officials for Brighton vs Arsenal.
Who is the referee for Brighton vs Arsenal?
The Premier League have announced that Chris Kavanagh will be the referee in charge of Arsenal’s match against Brighton.
Kavanagh has officiated three Gunners matches so far this season, with Arteta’s men winning two of these games.
The official oversaw Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat at Anfield back in August, as well as away wins at Burnley and Bournemouth in October and January, respectively.
Chris Kavanagh’s record against Arsenal
England has been a Premier League referee since 2017 and has officiated 27 Arsenal games throughout his career.
In these games, he’s handed the Gunners 51 yellow cards, two red cards and no penalties.
| Kavanagh’s record refereeing Arsenal matches | |||
| Matches | Arsenal wins | Draws | Arsenal defeats |
| 27 | 14 | 7 | 6 |
Chris Kavanagh’s record against Brighton
As for Brighton, Kavanagh has officiated 22 of the Seagulls’ games, giving them 47 yellow cards, no red cards and five penalties in the process.
| Kavanagh’s record refereeing Brighton matches | |||
| Matches | Brighton wins | Draws | Brighton defeats |
| 22 | 7 | 7 | 8 |
Who are the assistant referees and VAR?
Alongside Kavanagh as the referee will be his assistants, Dan Cook, Ian Hussin and David Webb, with the former two running the line and the latter the fourth official.
In the VAR room at Stockley Park, Michael Salisbury will oversee the game, with Sian Massey-Ellis assisting him.
