Sunday 23rd JulyNewcastle United vs Aston VillaLincoln Financial FieldKick-off 7pm EST (12am BST)Ticket details

Earlier in July, it was announced that match officials from the UK would team up with their colleagues from the US to form a group of officials to oversee this summer's tournament in the States.

And Professional Referees Organisation whistler Szpala has been confirmed as the man in the middle for the Magpies' opening fixture against Villa in Philadelphia.

Szpala has been a Major League Soccer referee since 2021, when he made his bow in Toronto FC's trip to DC United. Prior to that, he had served as a fourth official and assistant referee in the league since 2019.

Since then, he has taken charge of 49 MLS matches, issuing eight red cards and 225 yellows.

2023 stats

MLS games: 18Yellow cards issued: 91Red cards issued: 3

Assistants

Assistant referees: Adam Wienckowski and Ian McKayFourth official: Jeremy Scheer