Meet The Ref - Wolves v Latics - Lee Probert

Wigan Athletic travel down to the Black Country on Sunday to face Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Molineux in a game with lots a stake for both clubs, the man in the middle charged with ensuring that no one over steps the mark will be Gloucestershire official Lee Probert.

The 37 year old Bristol born whistle blower gave a recent interview where he stated that he`s a referee because he`s a rubbish footballer and says to be a good referee you need confidence, a calm approach when making decisions, assertiveness, resilience, patience and sound knowledge of the rules of the game, man-management and communication skills. You`ve not got that straight from the text book have you Lee?

Any way here is an excerpt of that interview:

How did you get introduced into refereeing?

My interest in football began at an early age due to my father managing several amateur local football teams. I was encouraged by him to take the referee`s exam at the age of 16 when I realised that I would not achieve my dream of becoming a professional footballer.

What is the best game you have officiated and why?

To date the most memorable game I have officiated would be the Carling Cup Final 2006/2007 season at the Millennium Stadium between Arsenal and Chelsea. To be involved in such a prestigious final was an acknowledgement of all the hard work and dedication that is required.

What skills do you think you need to become a professional referee?

There are many skills required to become a professional referee, to be confident and possess a calm approach when making decisions, having assertiveness, resilience and patience but most importantly having sound knowledge of the rules of the game, man-management and communication skills.

Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?

The constant support and guidance of my parents throughout my career perhaps has been the biggest influence by far, although along the way I have had the pleasure of working alongside experienced coaches who have assisted the development of my career.

In your opinion who is/was the best referee?

In my opinion the best referee of his time was Jack Taylor who was the first English referee to take charge of a World Cup Final in 1974.

Lee Probert Card Watch 2011/12

Games - 11, yellows - 46, reds - 3

Referee: L Probert. Assistants: S Burt, D C Richards
Fourth Official: A Taylor
Match Delegate: I Onoura
PGMO: E Lomas

















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