PLAY THE ADVANTAGE

We’re getting closer and closer to World Cup 2014, and so naturally I’ve got my eye on the men who will be in the middle in Brazil.

Undoubtedly the most recognizable man is England’s Howard Webb.

Webb is best known for refereeing the final match of the 2010 tournament. He’s back as England’s refereeing representative, along with his assistants, Darren Cann and Mike Mullarkey.

Webb has been England’s top referee for the past several years, and has refereed in multiple important matches, including the 2010 Champions League final. He is the only referee to officiate both the World Cup and Champions League final matches in the same year.

Webb is a police sergeant; he took five years sabbatical from the police force to focus on refereeing. That break ended earlier this year, and he has quietly returned to duty on a part-time basis, mostly in a community outreach role.

A devoted family man, he and wife Kay have three children and he is heavily involved in children’s charities and other work with kids.

He supports English club Rotherham United, who were just promoted to the Championship.

Want to read more about Howard Webb? Here are some articles.*

• Webb polishes his refereeing skills on the school ground. (The Star)
• His pre-Brazil training regime is brutal. (BBC Sport)

*I will add interesting articles I find, so check back often.

Featured photo: BBC Sport