NEWS · 05 Sep 2026
Mike Dean denies playing mini-games, BBC probes claims
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has denied claims that he played mini-games during matches, insisting he always applied the laws of the game. BBC Sport has reviewed the evidence surrounding the allegations and found no proof that Dean engaged in such conduct.
Mike Dean, who officiated more than 300 Premier League matches, has long been a prominent figure in English football.
Recently, rumours surfaced that Dean had played mini-games on the pitch while refereeing, a claim that would raise questions about his impartiality.
In response, Dean stated that he has always applied the laws of the game and has no record of playing such games.
BBC Sport examined the evidence, including match footage and reports, and found no substantiation of the allegations.
With the investigation concluding that there is no proof of misconduct, the focus now shifts to maintaining the integrity of officiating in the Premier League.