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Kevin Friend is DROPPED from the Premier League's next round of games after his controversial refereeing display during Liverpool's 3-1 win at Crystal Palace - including the decision to award Diogo Jota a dubious penalty

Referee Kevin Friend has been stood down by the Premier League for the upcoming round of fixtures after his contentious display during Crystal Palace's home defeat by Liverpool on January 23.

The Eagles lost 3-1 at Selhurst Park in a match that was surrounded by controversy - to the ire of the home supporters and to many neutrals.

The feeling was exacerbated further when the 50-year-old awarded Liverpool a penalty in the dying moments of the match after Palace goalkeeper Vicente Guaita collided with Diogo Jota.

Referee Kevin Friend has been dropped from the next round of Premier League matches after his display during Crystal Palace's 3-1 defeat by Liverpool at Selhurst Park on January 23

Initially, Friend gave a goal kick but after being advised to look at the incident by the VAR, Craig Pawson, he changed his mind - even though it appeared that Jota had initiated contact.