Overview
- Dean said on Jamie Vardy’s podcast on Thursday that he sometimes set informal challenges in matches, including going 20–25 minutes without blowing his whistle.
- He also said he once stayed in the centre circle for about 15 minutes as part of a personal challenge.
- The remarks have prompted strong criticism on social media, with fans and pundits calling the behaviour unprofessional and demanding accountability.
- Reporters have contacted Pro Ref, the body that oversees elite refereeing, but no formal investigation or disciplinary action has been announced.
- Dean retired from on-field refereeing in 2022 after a 22-year career and framed the comments as occurring before VAR was fully introduced, which has renewed debate about past oversight and referee culture.