Dean refereeing controversy; Spurs drop Richarlison
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The gist
Mike Dean claims he played secret in-match games as a laugh. Refereeing officials say no evidence exists, Spurs drop Richarlison.
Background
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean, who officiated 560 top-flight matches before retiring in 2022, admitted on Jamie Vardy's podcast that he used to set himself mini-challenges during matches 'as a laugh', such as seeing how long he could go without blowing his whistle or staying in the centre circle. His remarks have been met with bemusement by refereeing officials, who say there is no evidence of such behaviour. Separately, Tottenham Hotspur left Brazil forward Richarlison out of their 25-man Premier League squad, with manager Roberto De Zerbi saying Richarlison had 'said too many times he wants to leave'.
How it unfolded
- recentlyMike Dean appeared on Jamie Vardy's podcast and claimed he played secret in-match games as a laugh, including going 20-25 minutes without blowing his whistle and staying in the centre circle for 15 minutes.
- Thu, 03 Sep 2026Richarlison was left out of Tottenham's 25-man Premier League squad list, with the club telling him before the transfer deadline he would not be included so he could find a new club.
- Thu, 03 Sep 2026Richarlison released a social media post saying 'never again will anyone decide my future for me', amid reports he had agreed personal terms with Trabzonspor.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Refereeing officials within Pro Ref are puzzled by Dean's claims, saying there is no evidence of such behaviour and that staying in the centre circle for 15 minutes is highly improbable.
- Public
- Some fans reacted with disgust, outraged that a referee would distract himself with personal challenges instead of fully focusing on decisions.
- Caution
- Sky Sports pundit Danny Mills suggested Richarlison's omission could become a 'real problem' for Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Still unverified
Mike Dean's claims about playing in-match games are disputed by refereeing officials, who say there is no evidence. Reports of Richarlison agreeing personal terms with Trabzonspor are unconfirmed.