Referee for Manchester United vs Leeds United clash facing misconduct hearing

Old Trafford is bracing for a powder-keg Monday-night derby against Leeds United, yet the fireworks may have been ignited 24 hours early after it emerged that assistant referee Richard West will keep his place on the touchline despite facing a gross-misconduct hearing within Humberside Police.

West, 51, a serving police sergeant, is scheduled to appear before a five-day disciplinary panel on 27 April following allegations made by a junior female colleague. The claims centre on an off-duty relationship said to have occurred while the woman was experiencing personal difficulties, and include accusations that West continued unwanted contact after the liaison ended, ignored warnings that his behaviour was under investigation, and allegedly adjusted rotas so the pair worked together.

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited confirmed it is “monitoring developments” but, as of Sunday night, had not removed West from the fixture. He is therefore poised to assist Paul Tierney, the referee whose previous decisions have drawn public criticism from United boss Erik ten Hag, most notably after a contentious 2023 meeting with Tottenham.

With Michael Carrick’s side already contending with Harry Maguire’s suspension after his red card against Bournemouth, and defensive resources stretched in the race for Champions League qualification, the club will hope off-pitch distractions do not spill into a contest already loaded with historic rivalry and top-four implications.