Leeds United vs Southampton referee and VAR officials revealed for Championship play-off final

Premier League referee John Brooks will take charge of the Championship play-off final between Leeds United and Southampton. His appointment comes just a week after officiating Manchester City's successful defence of their Premier League title.

Brooks, who is also a UEFA referee, oversaw the Whites and Saints clash at St Mary's back in September. Russell Martin's team ran-out 3-1 winners, with United manager Daniel Farke unhappy over Adam Armstrong's second minute opener.

"The first goal would have been ruled out for offside by VAR but there is no VAR in the Championship so you have to drop a little bit quicker to defend the run of Armstrong," said Farke. It was the first United fixture that Brooks had officiated in 13 months since their Carabao Cup win over Barnsley.

Read more: Leeds United 'plot' summer transfer raid for Borussia Dortmund man on one condition

The English Football League have confirmed that Brooks will be assisted at the national stadium by Simon Bennett and Dan Robathan. Tony Harrington has been selected as the fourth official.

VAR will be in operation at Wembley. It has been used in the Championship, League One and League Two play-off finals since 2022.

The all-important man at the monitor will be Australian official Jarred Gillett. He has selected as the chief VAR official with Darren Cann assisting at PGMOL’s Stockley Park headquarters.

Either United or Southampton will join Leicester City and Ipswich Town in the Premier League next season.

Championship play-off final referee appointments:

Referee: John Brooks

Assistant Referees: Simon Bennett & Dan Robathan

Fourth Official: Tony Harrington

Reserve AR: Akil Howson

VAR: Jarred Gillett

AVAR: Darren Cann