MY VERDICT

IT is easy for referees to spot if a team are systematically fouling a player such as Wilfried Zaha.

A referee will judge each challenge on its merits. If the challenges are careless, he might allow a small number of fouls before a yellow card.

If different players are fouling the same individual, the referee will call the captain over. You will warn him that his team are repeatedly fouling the same player and the next person will be cautioned.

A great example of this was when Michael Oliver sent off Ander Herrera against Chelsea in March 2017. After Oliver warned United about persistent fouling of Eden Hazard, Herrera’s next challenge on the forward saw him shown a second yellow card. Deeney’s comments about trying to influence referees are mind games. I am sure experienced officials will ignore him.

Zaha is a difficult player to referee. In the past, he has gone down under little or no contact looking for a foul. As a referee, you know the players who are likely to simulate.

It is that knowledge that makes you find the best angle to make sure that when players like Zaha go into the penalty area, you get it right.