Referee Mark Halsey out of weekend's Premier League fixtures

Referee Mark Halsey has not been handed a Premier League game to officiate this weekend following Wigan Athletic's victory over Newcastle United that was marred by controversy.

The match official failed to spot Wigan winger Callum McManaman's reckless challenge on Massadio Haidara, who was forced to seek hospital treatment, during the 2-1 victory for the Latics at the DW Stadium on March 17.

Following the controversial incident, which left McManaman unpunished, Halsey has not been handed a game in the top flight, but will instead referee Friday's League One clash between Coventry City and Doncaster Rovers, according to Sporting Life.

Halsey will appear for Reading's visit to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium as a fourth official.