Why the Referee Was Substituted Off During Leicester City vs Southampton

In one of the most incredible scenes in Premier League history, a referee had to be substituted during Leicester City’s clash with fellow relegated side Southampton at the King Power Stadium. In what is set to be one of Jamie Vardy’s final games for the Foxes, the veteran striker gave his side the lead — but his goal was soon overshadowed by one of the most bizarre incidents ever seen.

With a little over 20 minutes played, referee David Webb was seen lying on the pitch and required medical treatment before being escorted off. After a lengthy delay, fourth official Sam Barratt stepped in to take over officiating duties, with the reason for the substitution later confirmed as a calf injury sustained by Webb.

Webb Replaced by Barratt After Colliding with Ayew

The referee had to undergo a concussion test

As can be seen in the footage above, Leicester forward Jordan Ayew collided with Webb while attempting to press Southampton players, leaving the official in a heap on the ground. On closer inspection, it appeared the Ghanaian accidentally caught the referee with his elbow, prompting Webb to clutch his face as he went down.

Because Webb had sustained a blow to the head, he was subjected to a concussion protocol, similar to the one players must undergo after head injuries. The referee was escorted off the pitch for evaluation and did not return to the match. Sam Barratt, originally the fourth official, stepped in to take charge on the field, while Phil Sharp — who was at the King Power Stadium in his role as referee delegate — assumed the fourth official duties.

Commentary later confirmed that Webb was okay and receiving appropriate care, but the decision to substitute him was made out of precaution. Ayew, meanwhile, remained on the pitch and went on to double Leicester’s lead before the half-time whistle.

Vardy’s Reaction to Referee’s Injury Goes Viral

The striker was up to his usual antics

While the injury to the official was enough to raise eyebrows, Jamie Vardy’s reaction to the situation caused hysterics on social media. The 38-year-old was the first to go check on Webb, but as he lent down to check he was alright, he grabbed the whistle and blew it right by the ear of the stricken referee.

Social media was quick to react to another moment of Vardy s***housery, with one person saying: “What is Vardy doing,” while another added: “Jamie Vardy never change. Sad to see him leave at the end of the season.” A third stated that the action was “peak Vardy,” as the former England international added yet another memorable moment to his unique Premier League legacy.