Making your Premier League debut at Manchester City would be a daunting prospect for anyone - even as a referee. But 32-year-old Farai Hallam, once a professional footballer on Stevenage's books, earned widespread praise for his performance during City's 2-0 win over Wolves at Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Former Premier League assistant referee Darren Cann said it was "without doubt the correct decision". "Hallam, officiating in his first Premier League match, made an excellent and courageous call to stick with his on-field decision of no handball," Cann told BBC Sport. "A brave and correct decision in law from a highly regarded referee making his Premier League debut."

Source: BBC January 25, 2026 00:24 UTC