Published • loading... • Updated
Mike Dean Admits to Playing Secret Games During Matches
Dean said referees treated matches as jokes, with some delaying whistles for 20 to 25 minutes and drawing criticism over professionalism.
- Former Premier League referee Mike Dean revealed he played secret "mini-games" during matches, including delaying whistle blows for up to 25 minutes before the VAR era.
- Dean, 58, retired in 2022 after a 22-year career officiating 553 Premier League games, during which he was known as a divisive figure who admitted to personal "arrogance."
- Speaking on Jamie Vardy's Having a Party podcast, Dean described standing in the centre circle for up to 15 minutes and claimed he went between 20 and 25 minutes without blowing a whistle during matches.
- Critics blasted the actions as "unprofessional" and "disgusting" on social media, with supporters questioning his integrity and arguing referees should focus solely on officiating matches.
- English refereeing governing body Pro Ref, formerly known as PGMOL, has been contacted for comment regarding the controversy, which follows past criticism from Pundit Garth Crooks.
Insights by Ground AI
15 Articles
15 Articles
Mike Dean sparks fury as he admits playing secret games in matches 'for a laugh'
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has admitted to playing secret games during matches for a "laugh", sparking outrage from fans who branded his antics "disgusting" and "unprofessional"
·London, United Kingdom
Read Full ArticleCoverage Details
Total News Sources15
Leaning Left3Leaning Right3Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution40% Center
Bias Distribution
- 40% of the sources are Center
40% Center
L 30%
C 40%
R 30%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
