Wigan Athletic entertain Newcastle United at the DW Stadium on Saturday in what is a vital game for both clubs, the Latics battling against the drop, whilst Newcastle are chasing Champions League qualification.
So with so much at stake for both clubs a strong but fair referee is needed to keep proceedings above board, who have the FA appointed for the match? Mike Dean that’s who
This will be Deans fourth Latics game this season, the previous three saw a home defeat by Bolton back in October, an away win at West Brom in December, an a home pasting by Sunderland on the 3rd of January, we’ve not had a draw yet
The Wirral official started refereeing in 1985 and progressed through from the Northern Premier League to the Premier League when he got his first top flight appointment in 2000, Deano, as he his known to his Wirral friends, took charge of the Australia v Argentina game back in 2007 in Melbourne, nice work if you can get it.
In a recent interview with Dean describes the Australia Vs Argentina game as his favourite match that he has been involved with, below is an excerpt from the interview:
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
Got into it as a hobby just to keep fit and enjoy. I also had plenty of help from people on the Wirral who though I had something to offer.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Refereeing a full International match in Melbourne between Australia and Argentina this year, which was a chance in a lifetime fixture to receive.
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
The above game, as I said, a great appointment for any Referee to fly to the other side of the world and Referee two teams who did so well in the last FIFA World Cup.
What skills do you think you need to become a professional referee?
You need to be good at what you do, and must be able to bounce back quickly from any setbacks because you only have a week before your next game so you need to re-focus as quickly as possible.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
Probably my dad in the early years and my wife and family in recent times. They have supported me all the way along me refereeing journey through many highs and one or two lows.
In your opinion who is/was the best Referee?
Has to be George Courtney, looked the part, used common sense (when you were allowed to) and had full respect of the players. Oh and Chris Foy.
Mike Dean Card Watch 2012/12
Games – 39
Yellows – 133
Reds – 4
Wigan Athletic v Newcastle United (3pm)
Referee: M Dean
Assistants: R Ganfield, S Massey
Fourth Official: M Atkinson
Match Delegate: R Jobson
PGMO: P Roberts
Latics and Proud
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