Mike Dean and Premier League referees
3 September 2026
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean says he set himself mini-challenges during matches, including seeing how long he could avoid blowing his whistle or remain inside the centre circle. Refereeing figures told BBC Sport they consider the claims unfounded.
Dean said he once went 20 to 25 minutes without using his whistle and stayed inside the centre circle for about 15 minutes. His comments revive concerns around officiating professionalism after previous controversial remarks about protecting fellow referee Anthony Taylor.