Liverpool FC News: Reds worst nightmare confirmed with referee and VAR for Brighton

The match officials have now been confirmed for Liverpool's clash with Brighton this weekend and it's news that has concerned some fans.

Following the end of the international break, Liverpool return to Premier League action this Sunday with the visit of the Seagulls to Anfield.

With Arsenal facing off against Manchester City this weekend, it represents a golden opportunity for the Reds to reclaim top spot in the title race, if they can overcome Roberto De Zerbi's side.

READ MORE: Liverpool vs Brighton - Match Preview

That's easier said than done, however, and Liverpool's recent record against Brighton is patchy at best.

The Reds have failed to win any of their last four meetings with the Seagulls, including two defeats and a draw in three encounters last season.

This Sunday's clash represents a chance for Jurgen Klopp's men to change that record at a key time as we enter the final ten games of the league season.

Match officials for Liverpool vs Brighton

Referee: David Coote

Assistants: Tim Wood, Mark Scholes

Fourth Official: Craig Pawson

VAR and AVAR: Paul Tierney, Dan Cook

With the weekend fast approaching, the Premier League has now confirmed the officials appointed for the 14:00 GMT kickoff, with David Coote the man chosen to referee the match.

The appointment is not a popular one among Liverpool fans with Coote, infamously, the man who failed to recommend a penalty for Martin Odegaard’s handball in the 1-1 draw between Liverpool and Arsenal back in December, while he was on VAR duty.

READ MORE: The worst refereeing decisions against Liverpool this season - ranked

In addition, the VAR for Liverpool vs. Brighton will be Paul Tierney, who has a checkered past when it comes to Liverpool and Klopp.

Back in 2021 during a 2-2 draw with Tottenham, the Liverpool boss told Tierney: “I have no problems with any referees, only you.”

Meanwhile in 2023, Klopp received a fine and two-match ban for comments suggesting the referee was biased following the 4-3 win over Spurs at the end of last season.

Alongside him on VAR duties in Stockley Park will be Dan Cook, who also has history with the Reds.

Cook was, of course, assistant VAR for Liverpool's defeat to Spurs back in September when Luis Diaz's perfectly legitimate goal was ruled out for offside due to human error.

We can only hope for a weekend without more controversial incident this weekend.