Mark Clattenburg: From Whistle Blower to Forest’s Referee Analyst
In a revealing piece by Philip Buckingham of The Athletic, we delve into the intriguing career trajectory of Mark Clattenburg. A man who once commanded the football pitch as a top referee, now finds himself in a unique role with Nottingham Forest, negotiating the turbulent waters of the Premier League’s officiating controversies.
Clattenburg’s Controversial Exit and New Role
Mark Clattenburg, once a celebrated referee at the pinnacle of English and European football, has returned to the Premier League limelight, not with a whistle, but as a referee analyst for Nottingham Forest. His autobiography, “Whistle Blower,” released two and a half years ago, was as unapologetically candid as the man himself, targeting former colleagues and superiors with blistering critiques.
Clattenburg and Howard Webb’s Fractured Dynamics
In an evolving tale, Clattenburg now finds himself needing the counsel of Howard Webb, his former colleague turned PGMOL head. Despite past grievances, the pair sat together at Forest’s recent FA Cup match, a necessity in Clattenburg’s new role as a liaison and analyzer of refereeing decisions for Forest. “When Howard doesn’t need you, he doesn’t speak,” Clattenburg once said, yet times have changed, and so have the requirements of their professional relationship.
Forest’s Clash with Premier League Officiating
The recent controversy following Liverpool’s narrow victory over Forest, where an officiating error by Paul Tierney played a pivotal role, placed Clattenburg at the forefront of media engagement. Forest’s hiring of Clattenburg is seen as a step towards forging a positive relationship with PGMOL, yet his denied request to meet the referee post-match highlights the complexity of his role and the ongoing challenges between clubs and officials.
Clattenburg’s Storied Refereeing Career
Long before the limelight of the Premier League, Clattenburg began as an assistant in the Northern League, quickly ascending the ranks to become one of English football’s elite referees. His natural ability and perfectionism marked him as exceptional. “He was an outstanding referee,” says former Premier League official Mark Halsey. However, his outspoken nature and distinctive off-field personality often set him apart from his peers.
Clattenburg’s Global Journey and Return to England
Following his Premier League exit in 2017, Clattenburg embarked on a global journey overseeing refereeing in various leagues, including Saudi Arabia, China, Egypt, and Greece. His return to England with Forest, a first-of-its-kind appointment in English football, has raised eyebrows and sparked debate. While some question the value Clattenburg brings, others, like Halsey, view his role as beneficial in enhancing club-referee relations.
The Premier League’s Reaction to Clattenburg’s Role
The response to Clattenburg’s appointment has been mixed. While Forest see it as an innovative approach to address refereeing grievances, others, like Gary Neville, view it skeptically. Nonetheless, this practice isn’t unusual in European football or other sports, where former officials often provide insights to clubs.
Clattenburg in the Eye of the Premier League Storm
As Nottingham Forest’s relegation battle intensifies, Clattenburg’s role becomes ever more critical. His unique position as a former top referee turned club analyst places him at the center of Premier League officiating debates, a familiar territory for a man accustomed to the storm of controversy.
In summary, Clattenburg’s transition from a high-profile referee to a pivotal figure in Nottingham Forest’s backroom staff encapsulates his enduring impact on English football. His journey from a “daft electrician from Newcastle” to a controversial yet respected figure in the football world is a testament to his indomitable character and the evolving landscape of football officiating and analysis.
