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Bankes confirmed for Blues battle
Peter Bankes has been named as the referee for Newcastle United's Premier League trip to Chelsea on Monday night (kick-off 8pm GMT).
Steve Bruce's side travel to Stamford Bridge aiming for a first away win against the Blues since May 2012 and this will be the third time the Merseyside official has taken charge of an English top-flight fixture involving the Magpies this term.
Bankes was the man in the middle for Newcastle's 1-1 draw at Tottenham Hotspur in September and awarded a stoppage-time equaliser, converted by Callum Wilson, to help United secure a point.
He handed out five yellow cards that day, booking Jamal Lewis, Isaac Hayden, Jonjo Shelvey and Joelinton.
The 38-year-old was also the referee for the Magpies' 2-0 defeat at Southampton in November and booked three players that night, including Federico Fernández and Sean Longstaff.
In the 17 games Bankes has officiated across the Premier League, Championship, FA Cup and Carabao Cup so far this season, he has issued a total of 52 yellow cards and three reds, sending off Fulham's Antonee Robinson in the Cottagers' 1-0 home defeat against Chelsea as well as Sheffield United's John Lundtsram during the Blades' 1-1 draw at Brighton & Hove Albion.
On Monday, Bankes will be assisted by Neil Davies and James Mainwaring while Kevin Friend will be the fourth official.
Chris Kavanagh will be the VAR and will be aided by Dan Cook.