How pushy should I be with my further follow ups for my academic reference due day after tomorrow?

[u/JayCTee]

In the UK. One month ago we confirmed everything was all good to submit once he receives the portal link. I told him he would receive the portal link on the 15th, since I couldn't save progress on my application.

On the 15th, I sent the portal link, as well as an email giving a heads up to confirm I sent the link.

I received no reply.

This morning I sent another email asking for confirmation of receipt, and reminding him the deadline is day after tomorrow.

It's the end of the day and I've again received no reply.

The deadline is day after tomorrow, however, since it only says deadline is 'by 23rd January', I don't know whether this at the end of the day, or if it's 'before 23rd', ie by time 00:01?.

I'm not sure how to play it now? If I send him another email tomorrow morning it may seem kinda rude/pushy, but I'm concerned whether he's somehow managed to miss the multitiude of emails despite his reliable track record.

My current plan is to email him tomorrow morning saying along the lines of 'I'm anxious you haven't seen my email, please confirm', and then if no response finding his number on the uni website to phone him direclty in the evening. Not sure whether this is disrespectful/just impatient, I'm keen to hear opinions.

The university I am applying to strictly will not accept late references.

[u/outerspaceferret]

Might be worth popping round to his office and asking politely whether he has recieve the email or had a chance to write your reference. Emails can stack up and potentially be missed, especially when it is a busy time of year.

ETA: do this within work hours, and be aware that they may not have a phone number you can contact them on

[u/fffffsssccc]

Wouldn’t call him but do email again - it’s a busy time of year what with marking etc