This is Up Front with Simon Jordan. A show brought to you by William Hill that pulls no punches and tells it EXACTLY like it is. Mike Dean is arguably the most recognisable Premier League referee there has ever been. The first to brandish 100 red cards, he is known for his eccentric approach, no look yellow cards, exaggerated step overs and banter with the players, there’s simply never been another match official like him. Mike joins the show to gives his most honest and open interview to date, discussing his 23-year-long refereeing career, his struggles with VAR, relationships with Premier League managers and much more. Expect brutal honesty, frank admissions and insight into why the new directives have been introduced at the start of the new season. Subscribe for future episodes and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan for full video episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly. Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive. This is Up Front, brought to you by William Hill. 18+ please gamble responsibly. #simonjordan #upfront #podcast 00:00 Introduction to Mike Dean 01:23 Mike Dean Podcast starts 02:03 Who wants to be a referee? 05:08 What’s the main character traits of a referee? 08:36 Has a manager has ever apologised? 12:17 Managers behaviour 18:48 Grassroots refereeing 22:19 Respect towards referees 24:14 How does the world perceive Mike Dean 26:55 “No-Look” yellow cards and step overs 30:17 Current referees 32:20 VAR 52:40 I was scared of VAR! 54:16 Hearing from referees 59:36 New directives for 2023 01:04:02 Mikes' proudest moment, his biggest disappointment and how would he like to be remembered?