Does it matter where a referee lives? Yes, but not for the reason you might think

The article argues that where a referee lives can matter, but not in the way some fans assume. It discusses concerns that Chris Kavanagh, based mostly in Greater Manchester, might show bias in the Premier League match at Anfield between Liverpool and Manchester City, where he sent off a home player in a 0-0 game that later swung decisively. The piece points to an independent review record over four-plus seasons showing Kavanagh made no on-field penalty or red-card decisions later judged incorrect involving Manchester clubs. It also notes he made City-related VAR decisions without recorded errors. Appointments rules from Pro Ref prevent referees with a “material connection” to a club, including geography limits for cities.