- Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has defended himself after admitting he played secret ‘mini-games’ during top-flight matches to amuse himself.
- Speaking on a podcast, Dean revealed he previously tried to go as long as 25 minutes without blowing his whistle and once stayed inside the centre circle for 15 minutes.
- The comments sparked widespread backlash from football fans and refereeing figures, who accused Dean of unprofessionalism and undermining the integrity of the game.
- Writing on Instagram, Dean clarified that his approach was intended to allow the game to flow and insisted he never meant to criticise or undermine refereeing standards.
- Dean, who took charge of 553 Premier League matches before retiring in 2022, did not offer an apology for his remarks.
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