Exclusive: Stuart Attwell set for hectic rush amid Sunderland vs Leeds weather fears
Stuart Attwell will have the final say on whether Leeds United's clash with Sunderland will go ahead on Sunday.
In the view of former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett, speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, it is set to be a frantic weekend for the official.
Less than 24 hours after that game finishes, Leeds are due to kick off against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
However, dreadful weather conditions are set to bombard pretty much all of Britain across the weekend, including the North-East.
Hackett has now shared the steps that will be taken amid the latest update from the Met Office.
What's latest Met Office warning for Sunderland vs Leeds?
As of Saturday morning, Sunderland just misses the amber weather warning for Storm Boelo.
Instead, a yellow warning is in place for Sunderland and the areas directly around it, which is also the case for Leeds.
That warning is in place from midday on Saturday until 9pm on Sunday, during which time the game will be contested.
The yellow warning is for strong windows, rather than heavy rain, but it means "injuries and danger to life from flying debris is possible".
The Met Office adds that "road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible".
It goes without saying it is hardly ideal conditions for those attending the match, especially those travelling from areas in the amber zone.
However, there is no immediate risk of the game being called off as things stand.
What steps will Stuart Attwell now take?
The referee, in conjunction with the local police, will have the final say on whether the game goes ahead.
With the warning being yellow for now, there does not seem any immediate risk of a postponement.
But as pointed out by Hackett, it will be a hectic rush for Attwell to get up to the other end of the country.
"With the likelihood of poor weather, Stuart Attwell the referee for the Sunderland versus Leeds game has a busy schedule," Hackett said.
"On Saturday, he will be based at Stockley Park in the role of VAR for the Arsenal versus Everton clash.
"Then he will travel to Sunderland in the evening and stay at a local hotel in case an early inspection is required.
"Normally he will need to be at the ground usually a minimum two hours before kick off."
Fingers crossed the weather does not deteriorate further and Attwell is not forced to make a decision that nobody wants.