@FootynewsWhile players were busy fighting to win matches, Premier League referees were running their own internal competitions behind the scenes. Mike Dean, one of the most recognized officials in the league, opened up about a habit he shared with his officiating team that sounds wild. They started with a challenge to avoid using the whistle for as long as possible. Dean reported that he went without blowing it for periods lasting between 20 to 25 minutes at a time. Then they moved on to a second challenge where the goal was to remain in the center circle for the longest duration. Dean admitted he stayed put there for at least 15 minutes straight. It is a funny anecdotal account of how referees spent their time when the real game wasn't the only thing happening.

@FootynewsWhile players were busy fighting to win matches, Premier League referees were running their own internal competitions behind the scenes. Mike Dean, one of the most recognized officials in the league, opened up about a habit he shared with his officiating team that sounds wild. They started with a challenge to avoid using the whistle for as long as possible. Dean reported that he went without blowing it for periods lasting between 20 to 25 minutes at a time. Then they moved on to a second challenge where the goal was to remain in the center circle for the longest duration. Dean admitted he stayed put there for at least 15 minutes straight. It is a funny anecdotal account of how referees spent their time when the real game wasn't the only thing happening.