‘Oh no’, ‘Hopefully he’ll put his sentiments about City behind’ – Some fans react after hearing who will referee the game against Brighton

Mike Dean will be in charge of Manchester City’s upcoming midweek Premier League fixture as the champions welcome an in-form Brighton side to the Etihad.

The Blues welcome Brighton to the Etihad Stadium, knowing that they are potentially seven wins away from retaining their English top-flight title.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League game, the referee appointments for the crunch meeting at the Etihad have been announced.

Mike Dean, who announced that he would be retiring at the end of 2021/22 campaign, will take charge of his 555th top-flight match when Manchester City host Brighton.

The 53 year-old has taken charge of 23 matches so far this season, showing 74 yellow cards and two red cards.

Mike Dean was last in charge of the Blues in March, when Manchester City beat Southampton 4-1 at St Mary’s in the Emirates FA Cup Quarter-Final.

Brighton have not won any of the last eight games of which he has taken charge.

The full officiating crew for the game is as follows.

Referee: Mike Dean. Assistants: Darren Cann, Eddie Smart. Fourth official: Robert Jones. VAR: Chris Kavanagh. Assistant VAR: Neil Davies.

In reaction to the news shared on Twitter by Man City Xtra, many Man City fans have expressed their thoughts and opinions.

“Oh no.”
Credit: @DeBlueLou

“Mike Dean? Hopefully he’ll put his sentiments about city behind”
Credit: @HIM9ature

“Its bad but can’t be as bad as Paul Tierney and Anthony Taylor”
Credit: @Jacob4rmstrong

“Possibly our last game with Mike Dean”
Credit: @zukmcfc

“End of an era.”
Credit: @NA1907_

“Can’t say I’m sorry to see him go.”
Credit: @AndrewHeaps5