Chelsea face Liverpool at Stamford Bridge today as both clubs begin their 2023/24 Premier League campaign – with Anthony Taylor in charge of proceedings.
The 44-year-old has been appointed to oversee the clash between Mauricio Pochettino and Jürgen Klopp’s sides in west London.
That decision from the Premier League caused some frustration amongst Chelsea fans, as the Englishman is not exactly the most popular official at Stamford Bridge, as one manager previously mentioned.
So, what has Thomas Tuchel said about Anthony Taylor before? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, the German admitted that the Wythenshawe-born referee is not rated at Chelsea.
Speaking after last season’s 2-2 draw against Tottenham at Stamford Bridge, Tuchel said: “I don’t think that (only) some of the fans think that (Taylor has made bad decisions against Chelsea).
“I can assure you that the whole dressing room, every single person thinks that. I cannot understand how the first goal is not offside… and I don’t want to accept it. The players know what is going on. They are on the pitch and they know it. Again it is like this.”
When asked if the Chelsea players were worried to see Taylor appointed as their referee, Tuchel added: “Yes, of course.”
Clearly, Taylor is not the most popular man at Stamford Bridge – to say the least.
Anthony Taylor and Chelsea can have a fresh start
Hopefully, Taylor officiates today’s meeting against Liverpool without making any huge mistakes.
The manager – and most of the squad – who took aim at Taylor last season are no longer at Stamford Bridge, so today’s clash represents a chance for Chelsea and the unpopular official to put the past behind them.
However, if he continues to anger the Stamford Bridge faithful and those inside the dressing room with some dreadful decisions, Taylor shouldn’t expect his image in west London to change anytime soon.
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