Rebecca Welch appointment hailed as ‘great moment’ by Eddie Howe

40-year-old Welch is set to become the first female referee in top-flight history.

Rebecca Welch’s historic appointment to referee a Premier League game has been welcomed by Newcastle manager Eddie Howe (Bradley Collyer/PA)

Rebecca Welch’s historic appointment to officiate a Premier League match has been welcomed by Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.

The 40-year-old Welch will become the first female referee in top-flight history when she takes charge of the Fulham v Burnley match on December 23.