I used to play in-match games as a laugh - Dean
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean says he would stay in the centre circle for as long as he could during a match.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"I used to do another thing. I used to stand in the centre circle - see how long I could stay in the centre circle before I had to leave."
— Mike Dean , Celebrity
"I didn't want to send him up because he is a mate as well as a referee."
— Mike Dean , Celebrity
"Easy money."
— Josh James , Celebrity
Key People
Anthony Taylor is a retired Premier League referee who officiated at the World Cup and in various domestic matches.
Cristian Romero is an Argentine professional football player who plays as a defender.
Jamie Vardy is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Leicester City.
Comedian and podcast co-host.
Marc Cucurella is a full-back for Chelsea and a Spanish national team player.
Former Premier League referee with a 28-year career in officiating.
Locations
All Coverage
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean says he would stay in the centre circle for as long as he could during a match.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
I want to use my mental health experiences to help others - Robathan
Former assistant referee Dan Robathan ran the line at the FA Cup final between Crystal Palace and Manchester City in 2025. Just one year later he talked to BBC Newsbeat about losing his career after doctors found benign tumours in his spine.
September 25, 2026 at 07:13 AMFA Cup assistant ref says tumours ended his career
Dan Robathan says he needs time to "grieve" his career.
September 25, 2026 at 06:01 AM'Who would be a goalkeeper?' - Hart on Martinez own goal
Match of the Day pundit Joe Hart reflects on the "uncomfortable" own goal by Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez in their 1-1 draw with Fulham.
September 20, 2026 at 11:09 PMCarrick has faith in VAR despite derby error
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick still has faith in VAR despite the derby blunder that cost his side in their home defeat by Manchester City
September 19, 2026 at 09:30 PMInfantino says he is open to talks over Fifa reform
Fifa president Gianni Infantino has proposed an external review of how world football's governing body operates. shifting tone as he seeks support to stay on.
September 21, 2026 at 07:50 PM'I think he's a genius' - Hart hails Cherki strike
Match of the Day pundit Joe Hart hails Manchester City's Rayan Cherki as a "genius" after the forward scored in his side's 5-3 Premier League win over Sunderland.
September 20, 2026 at 11:09 PM