Politics and sport have always been uneasy bedfellows, but until recently referees and other sport officials have rarely been dragged into the public discourse.
Our decisions are pored over relentlessly, which is all part of the rough and tumble that goes with the job. But as the arbiters of fairness, we have largely swerved being attacked by those seeking to exploit the game for political gain.
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The convention has been for politicians to accept referees are neutral, honest and doing their best, and to leave us alone.
That has always suited referees, as we want to stay out of the spotlight whenever possible.
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