Mike Dean, a Premier League referee, believes the time has come for him to retire at the conclusion of the season,- but says no decision has been made on whether he would take on a VAR job.
Dean began his career as a Premier League referee in 2000 and has now officiated 553 Premier League matches, issuing 114 red cards - more than any other official.
Dean, who has previously overseen the FA Cup final, as well as European and international matches, is looking forward to his next challenge after 22 years in the role.
'Times have changed, referees are growing older, and I am not as fit as I used to be, so things have to change,' the 53-year-old told Sky Sports.
'I took the choice on my own, I went out on my own terms, which is what I wanted to do, and nobody else's terms, which is fantastic.'
'I will miss not stepping out to referee a game when the season starts next season, but I have had a nice inning with 22 years.'
'It's time to move on and see what the future holds. We don't know what it is yet, but we'll see.'
Dean has been connected with a new post following his retirement.
'Contrary to claims and conjecture, I have been offered no VAR post at all, that is the only word of mouth, I believe,' he continued.
'It could be there if I wanted to go after it, but I'm not sure.' I need to keep my options open and see what's out there.
'I'll miss the banter with the boys and the refs.' As guys back home, we give up a lot; we don't have much of a social life because we're abroad every weekend and here (at the PGMOL headquarters) every two weeks.
'So I'm going to miss the banter with the fellas, the men I work with every week.'
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