Born in 1985 in Penwortham, Lancashire, Salisbury not only inherited a passion for football, but also his father's refereeing vocation, Graham Salisbury, a veteran referee with over two decades of experience in the English Football League. From a young age, Michael was immersed in the world of refereeing, accompanying his father and learning the nuances of the game from a unique perspective.
His professional career took off in 2010, when he participated as an assistant referee in the English Football League. With dedication and a meticulous approach, he quickly rose through the ranks, making his debut as a referee in the Vanarama National League during the 2015-2016 season. His talent and consistency led to his promotion to the League Two the following year.
One of the highlights of his career was on June 29, 2020, when he officiated the final of the EFL League Two play-off at Wembley, where Northampton Town defeated Exeter City with a convincing 4-0 victory. This match not only solidified his reputation, but also demonstrated his ability to handle high-pressure games with composure and fairness.
In the 2021-2022 season, Salisbury made the leap to the Premier League, debuting in a match between Aston Villa and Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. His refereeing style is characterized by a strict and precise interpretation of the rules, earning him both praise and criticism at different points in his career.
However, the journey has not been without challenges. In April 2023, during a match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Tottenham Hotspur, Salisbury, acting as the VAR official, sparked controversy by not intervening in a play that many considered a clear penalty. This incident led to an official apology from the PGMOL and his subsequent absence from Premier League refereeing appointments in the following weeks.
England
