Former Premier League official Mike Dean says he never meant to “damage the credibility of refereeing” when he revealed that he sometimes set himself small challenges for entertainment during games.
Speaking on Jamie Vardy’s podcast, Dean said he occasionally challenged himself to avoid using his whistle for as long as possible or to remain inside the centre circle.
“We would sometimes begin a match by seeing how much time could pass before the first whistle,” Dean explained.
“I tried it several times in the Premier League before VAR was introduced, occasionally going 20 or 25 minutes without using the whistle.”
The 58-year-old faced significant criticism over the remarks. Fellow former Premier League referee Mark Halsey argued that they had placed additional pressure on current match officials.
Dean issued a statement through his Instagram story on Friday. Although he did not withdraw the claim, he attempted to clarify the circumstances surrounding it.
“During my 25-year career as a professional referee, I always enforced the Laws of the Game as effectively as I could,” Dean wrote.
“My refereeing style focused on keeping matches flowing. Whenever circumstances allowed, I used a higher threshold for physical contact, an approach that players appreciated.
“Nevertheless, whenever I witnessed an illegal challenge that required intervention, I took the necessary action from the proper position.
“I never intended to cast doubt on, attack or weaken confidence in the integrity of refereeing in this country.
“I have always held the profession in high regard and understood the responsibility involved in officiating matches.”
However, is there any proof that Dean actually carried out these personal challenges during games?
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