MIKE DEAN is set to STAY in the Premier League to become a dedicated VAR official.
The 54-year-old retired from refereeing at the end of last season.
After 22 years of service he took charge of his final game when Chelsea played host to Watford in May.
While many fans believed it would be his final influence on the Premier League, The Daily Mail have now revealed that he will take on a new role when the season starts in August.
The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) is set to introduce some major changes in the near future, with referees chief Mike Riley due to step down next season.
Dean has worked at Stockley Park on multiple occasions since VAR was introduced in 2019, so he is already very familiar with the role.
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Fans have taken to Twitter to react to the news, with one person saying: "Mr Main Event is BACK."
Another joked: "Better put the party hats away then!"
A third said: "Cancel the season."
While another appeared happy with the news, adding: "Well that's really made my day."
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Dean gave out over 2000 yellow cards during his career.
He is also the only referee in Premier League history to give out over 100 red cards.
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