BARNSLEY man Darren England has been selected as the fourth official for the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday.

The 39-year-old from Little Houghton, who used to work at Barnsley FC’s community trust before becoming a professional official, will take up the role when Manchester City face Crystal Palace from 4.30pm.

As fourth official, standing between the dugouts, England is likely to be in regular contact with managers Pep Guardiola and Oliver Glasner, and their staff, as well as referee Stuart Attwell.

England has previously been the assistant referee in the 2015 FA Cup final before becoming a referee and working his way up to the top flight in which he has regularly taken charge of games this season.

No stranger to the Wembley dugouts, England was also the fourth official for the League Cup final earlier this season.

Scott Ledger, from Royston, was an assistant referee in the 2023 FA Cup final.

England told the Chronicle: “It’s an absolute honour to be officiating in this weekend’s FA Cup final.

“I am lucky that this is my second FA Cup final having previously run the line in 2015.

“The next target is to do it with a whistle but, before that, I am looking forward to supporting the team on Saturday.

“I will sing the national anthem proudly and feel honoured to represent Barnsley referees who play an important role, week in, week out in our local area.”

England is likely to be the only Barnsley man involved in the game as Manchester City defender John Stones is recovering from injury.