Why the Referee Was Substituted Off During Leicester City vs Southampton
Referee David Webb gave his team the lead in what is expected to be one of Jamie Vardy’s final games for the Foxes at the King Power Stadium, but his goal was quickly overshadowed by one of the most bizarre incidents ever witnessed. After a protracted delay,
fourth official Sam Barratt took over officiating duties, with the reason for the substitution later confirmed as Webb’s calf injury. Webb was replaced by Barratt after colliding with Ayew The referee had to undergo a concussion test.
The official was left in a heap on the ground after Leicester forward Jordan Ayew struck Webb while trying to press Southampton players, as seen in the video above. Upon closer examination, it seemed the Ghanaian had unintentionally elbowed the referee, causing Webb to grasp his face as he fell.
Webb was put through a concussion protocol, which is comparable to what athletes go through following head injuries, because he had been struck in the head. The referee did not return to the game after being escorted off the field for assessment. Originally the fourth official, Sam Barratt took over as the field’s leader, and Phil Sharp, who was present at King Power Stadium as a referee delegate, took over as the fourth official.
The decision to substitute Webb was done out of prudence, but subsequent commentary revealed that he was fine and receiving the proper care. Meanwhile, Ayew continued to play and, just before halftime, doubled Leicester’s lead.
The way Vardy responded to the referee’s injury went viral.The striker was acting in his typical manner.
Although the official’s injury was enough to draw attention, Jamie Vardy’s response to the incident sent social media into a frenzy. The 38-year-old went to check on Webb first, but when he bent down to make sure he was okay, he seized the whistle and blew it directly into the referee’s ear.
Another instance of Vardy s***housery sparked a rapid response on social media, with some asking, “What is Vardy doing?” and another adding, “Jamie Vardy never changes.” It was disappointing to see him go at the end of the season. “Peak Vardy,” according to a third, as the former England international added another unforgettable moment to his already distinctive Premier League legacy.
