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Revealed: Official in key Man United clash is police officer facing allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards female colleague

An assistant referee – who faces allegations in his other role as a police officer of inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague – is set to run the line at the Premier League clash between Manchester United and Leeds United.

Richard West could be stripped of his role as a sergeant with Humberside Police amid the claims. 

However, he officiated at Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final between Chelsea and Port Vale at Stamford Bridge and is down to be a linesman at Old Trafford for the Roses fixture on Monday night.

While no final decision has been made by refs’ body PGMO, it is thought that the 51-year-old is unlikely to be stood down.

West faces a five-day hearing later this month where he will face claims of gross misconduct. 

There is currently a view that no decisions over his career in football should be made until the result of the hearing is known – although that may change in the coming days. 

Assistant referee Richard West is set to run the line at Man United vs Leeds despite facing allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague in his role as a police officer

According to a report in The Sun, West, who has performed as an assistant referee at hundreds of professional games, has been stood down from public duties at the force. 

PGMO, who decide who officiates matches, are known to be aware of the allegations and internal discussions over the matter have taken place based on information available. They will be kept abreast of the hearing and its outcome.

Should he remain on the list, West will assist match referee Paul Tierney at Old Trafford, with Scott Ledger his opposite linesman. 

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