Kevin Friend to Take Charge of Leeds-Fulham Clash After Anthony Taylor Gets Stuck in Traffic

Kevin Friend will take charge of Leeds United's first home Premier League clash of the season against Fulham on Saturday, with referee Anthony Taylor needing to be replaced after hitting traffic on his way to the game.

Leeds began their 2019/20 campaign with a thrilling 4-3 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, but they welcome Premier League football back to Elland Road when they take on Fulham on Saturday. Taylor had been chosen as the referee for the game - but he won't be able to perform his duties.

Instead, Friend - who was initially selected as the fourth official - will officiate the contest as the Athletic's Phil Hay has reported that Taylor struggled to find a way through the traffic on the M62. Clearly, Taylor hadn't been following the news as drivers had been advised to avoid that route.

Not only has there been a breakdown on the M62, there has also been a spillage. There is also said to be around four miles of queuing traffic. It really hasn't gone well for Taylor, has it?

With Friend not being caught up in the seemingly never-ending traffic on the motorway, he will step up from fourth official. But the question on most minds is...who on earth becomes the fourth official now? Of course, due to the coronavirus and the measures enforced in the footballing world now to ensure the well-being of everyone involved, it isn't quite so simple to replace an official.

Whatever the case, both sides will be desperate to get their first three points of the season. Of course, Leeds finished top of the Championship in 2019/20, 12 points ahead of Fulham.