Jamie Vardy had to intervene as Leicester’s match with Southampton was temporarily suspended when the referee was wiped out.
David Webb was the man in the middle for the clash at the King Power Stadium but saw his afternoon come to an abrupt halt.
The official sparked immediate concern among players when he was caught by the shoulder of Jordan Ayew in the 21st minute.
While the collision was clearly accidental, Webb fell to the floor holding his face and appeared in serious pain.
With a whistle needed to pause the match, it was Leicester’s Vardy who stepped in.
Grabbing the arm of the referee who was sprawled out on the floor, the striker took the chance to blow the whistle and stop proceedings.
Medical staff from both teams rushed on to treat Webb and a stretcher was brought onto the field before the referee rose to his feet.
He was able to walk down the tunnel but it was quickly decided a replacement official was needed.
After a lengthy stoppage, fourth official Sam Barrott stepped in to referee the rest of the match.
The incident came three minutes after Vardy scored to put Leicester ahead.
It’s the first Premier League goal that the Foxes have scored at home since Ruud van Nistelrooy’s second match in charge against Brighton.
Play resumed with Ayew doubling Leicester’s lead before half-time.
However the contest had 12 minutes of added time as a result of the injury to the referee.
More to follow…
