Kevin Friend will referee a Watford game for the first time this season when he takes charge of tonight’s clash with Everton.

The official has overseen 16 games so far in 2018/19, showing 67 yellow cards and a one red card.

That dismissal came in his last match as he sent off Brighton’s Shane Duffy in the Seagulls’ 3-1 win over rivals Crystal Palace.

It will be the second occasion this term Friend has been the referee for an Everton game after he was the man in the middle for the Toffees goalless draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in November.

Watford go into tonight’s game at Goodison Park sitting 13th in the table but know victory will see them go level on 23 points with an Everton side occupying seventh spot.