Everything you need to know about Burnley v Middlesbrough ref

After the shenanigans of transfer deadline day, Burnley return to action with an important clash against Middlesbrough tonight.

The Clarets will be looking to register their first victory of the season to get their campaign up and running, after a poor start.

Nicky Hayen’s side were well beaten 4-1 by Norwich City on Saturday, leaving them second bottom of the Championship following the first three games.

As for Boro, they beat West Brom 3-1 to move up into the play-off spaces at this early juncture.

Who is the referee for Burnley v Middlesbrough?

Matt Donohue, of Greater Manchester.

He’s overseen two games so far this season, dishing out nine yellow cards but no reds.

Going back to last season, he took charge of 30 matches, showing 126 yellows - at an average of 4.2 per game - and just three reds.

The vast majority of his games came in the Championship, although he did officiate three Premier League fixtures too.

What history does he have with Burnley?

Tonight will be the first time he’s taken charge of a Burnley game since April 2025, when he officiated a dramatic 2-1 win over Watford at Vicarage Road.

Donohue dismissed two Watford players as the Clarets came from behind to record a crucial victory during their promotion campaign under Scott Parker.

Prior to that, Donohue was also the ref for Burnley’s 4-1 win at Luton Town on the opening weekend of the 2024/25 season.

During the Vincent Kompany promotion season, Donohue refereed the 4-0 home win against Huddersfield Town and the 3-0 final day victory over Cardiff City, giving the Clarets a 100 per cent record under him.

Who are the other officials?

Paul Hodskinson and Conor Brown will run the line, while Bobby Madley is fourth official.