NFL side judge pulled for being a Saints fan

Referee's Facebook page showed him in team gear

Author: From Jill Martin CNN Sports
Published On: Sep 16 2012 02:14:50 PM EDT   Updated On: Sep 17 2012 09:17:37 AM EDT
New Orleans Saints helmet
(CNN) -

NFL side judge Brian Stropolo has been pulled from Sunday's New Orleans Saints vs. Carolina Panthers game because he's a Saints fan, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello confirmed to CNN.

Stropolo has a Facebook page -- which has since been pulled -- showing him in Saints gear.

"He was taken off game due to the information disclosing that he is a Saints fan. We must avoid even the appearance of a conflict," Aiello said

The NFL failed to reach a labor agreement with its regular officiating crew earlier this month, prompting the hiring of replacements. Stropolo was hired as replacement staff.

Alternate Tim Keese is replacing Stropolo as side judge for Sunday's game in Charlotte, North Carolina. Officiating crews always have an alternate in case a backup is needed for any reason.

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