Ref Watch: Simon Hooper to oversee Saturday's derby clash

Referee Simon Hooper will oversee the Whites weekend clash against local rivals Wigan Athletic in the Sky Bet Championship.

Entering into his 12th season as a top flight referee, Hooper has officiated 12 games so far this year, in which he has produced 38 yellow cards and a two red cards.

His last game was certianly one to remember, as he officiated the 5-5 draw between Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest on Wednesday evening.

When looking towards last season, Hooper produced 129 yellow cards in 42 games, branding six red cards in total.

The last time Hooper was in charge a Wanderers match was in November 2017, where he oversaw Wanderers 0-0 away draw against Preston North End in Sky Bet Championship.

In that fixture, Hooper booked five players in the form of Paul Huntington and Andy Boyle for the Lilywhites, along with Mark Beevers, Sammy Ameobi and Karl Henry for the Whites.

Edward Smart and Andrew Halliday will run the line for the fixture, with Darren Drysdale as fourth official.

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