Ex-Fifa official: Sunderland handed referee boost as ‘controversial’ news confirmed
Sunderland and the rest of the EFL have been given a major boost with the news of Trevor Kettle’s retirement, according to Keith Hackett.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee claimed fans up and down the country will be happy with Kettle’s retirement.
The 55-year-old has hung up his whistle after a controversial 20-year career in the EFL.
He last officiated a Sunderland game when Wigan Athletic won 1-0 at the Stadium of Light just over 18 months ago (5 December 2020).
Reports emerged last week (16 July) of his retirement and former head of the PGMOL Hackett has now confirmed it.
He told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “I can remember it a few weeks ago, the announcement that he had retired.
“There was no confirmation but it did indicate that he was going to India to manage the referee’s out there.
“Trevor’s a really nice guy but I think football will be glad that he’s gone because he’s a controversial guy who got himself regularly in trouble applying the law.
“If you look through the records there are enough examples. On one occasion he blew early that ruled out a goal.
“We’ve always said at half-time or full-time, make certain it’s a time when the ball is in midfield and there’s no chance of a goal being scored. On this one, he got caught. He blew the whistle and the ball was in the back of the net.
“In law he’s correct, it’s not a good situation.
“Almost every fan in the country has cause to be concerned about Trevor Kettle and his decision making.”
In other news, Sunderland have been backed by an expert to sign a Premier League striker.