Former referee Dean defends integrity after backlash over playing 'games' during matches

Sept 4 : Former Premier League referee Mike Dean said it was never his intention to "undermine the integrity" of officiating in England after facing sharp criticism for admitting he played 'games' such as seeing how long he could go without having to blow the whistle.Dean was one of England's top referees who officiated in more than 550 Premier League matches before retiring in 2022. He served as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) official for one more season before leaving the role in 2023.Speaking on "Jamie Vardy's Having A Party" podcast, Dean recalled jokingly challenging himself to let play flow for as long as possible without blowing the whistle and seeing how long he could remain in the centre circle before needing to move.Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey was one of many forme