Webb leaves PGMOL to undertake consultancy opportunities

Former World Cup referee Howard Webb is to leave his role as Select Group Performance Director with Professional Game Match Officials at the end of June. The 43-year-old, who retired from officiating to assume the post with PGMOL last August, intends to undertake more freelance professional services work.

The organisation's general manager Mike Riley said in a statement: "PGMOL will always be grateful for the job Howard has done in promoting English refereeing over the last two decades. “He was at the very forefront of our profession and has left a lasting legacy, inspiring a generation to take up the whistle. His unparalleled success on the field is matched by respect he has garnered representing refereeing off the pitch. I have enjoyed working with Howard during the last season and wish him every success in his new venture”.

Rotherham-born Webb, who was chosen to referee the 2010 World Cup final between Spain and Holland in South Africa, added: 'I'm very grateful to Mike Riley, the board and the management team of PGMOL for the opportunity they gave me last season. “I have seen at first hand the fantastic work being done, and planned, to ensure that England remains a standard-bearer for refereeing. I've spent many years working hard to promote refereeing and improve standards, and now I'd like the chance to undertake different consultancy opportunities. I want to wish the PGMOL and the select group all the best for the future. I truly believe they are the best group of match officials in world football”. 

Source: Daily Mail