Ex-Premier League ref Mike Dean responds to criticism over 'secret games'

Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has defended his career after facing backlash for saying he and other officials played "secret games" while officiating matches.

Dean, 61, shared these details on the Jamie Vardy’s Having a Party podcast. He mentioned one of the challenges was to see how long he could go without blowing his whistle.

"There used to be games that we used to have; as a laugh, we used to say, 'Right, we’ll kick off now, right? See how long we can go without blowing a whistle,'" he told the podcast, according to GB News.

He continued, "Done that a few times in the Premier, before VAR obviously. Went 20 to 25 minutes without blowing a whistle a few times. Let it go, let it go, let it go."

Dean also talked about how he would sometimes test himself to stay in the centre circle for as long as he could.

"I used to stand in the centre circle and see how long I could stay in the centre circle before I had to leave. Got about 15 minutes once in one game, without leaving the centre circle," he said.

His comments upset many fans. This led Dean to make a statement on social media to clarify his record.

"Throughout my 25 years as a professional referee, I have always applied the Laws of the Game to the best of my ability. My approach as a referee was always to allow the game to flow, and whenever possible I preferred to apply a high threshold for contact, which the players liked."

He added, "However, if I saw a foul challenge that needed me to take the appropriate action, I would give it from the correct position. At no stage was it my intention to question, criticise or undermine the integrity of refereeing in this country. I have always respected the profession and the responsibility that comes with being a referee."

One supporter expressed frustration, saying, "Why are they laughing at this? It’s disgusting from a supposed top referee. Messing around while fans pay hundreds of pounds for matches to be officiated professionally."

Another fan questioned Dean's honesty, saying, "What else was going on that he’s not disclosing? And they call themselves professional."

Dean refereed in the Premier League for 22 years, overseeing 553 matches from 2000 to 2022. He later worked as a video assistant referee during the 2022/23 season before stepping away from officiating in 2023.