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Mark Clattenburg's BIZARRE first press conference as referee in Saudi Arabia
MARK CLATTENBURG says he wants to improve refereeing in Saudi Arabia after leaving the Premier League today.
Mark Clattenburg has quit the Premier League for Saudi Arabia
Referee Clattenburg was today unveiled as part of Saudi Arabia's refereeing team.
The Durham-born ref, 41, officiated the Euro 2016, Champions League and FA Cup finals last year.
He leaves English football after officiating his first match in the Football League back in 2000.
And in a slightly awkward first press conference in Saudi Arabia, Clattenburg introduced himself to the media.
المؤتمر الصحفي لسعادة رئيس #الاتحاد_السعودي_لكرة_القدم الأستاذ عادل بن محمد عزت https://t.co/mISNmXEsVI
— الاتحاد السعودي (@saudiFF) February 16, 2017
"My name is Mark Clattenburg. I am from a city called Newcastle. Anybody who knows England well they have one of the best football teams in the country. It's in the north of England," he said.
"I started refereeing in England at the age of 16 an with the education and support of being a full-time referee in the Premier League I have enjoyed success in over 400 matches.
"All domestic finals in England, the 2012 Olympic Final, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League and the Euro Cup.
"I have also represented FIFA at U20 and U17 finals and have been on the shortlist for two World Cups.
Clattenburg started refereeing in the Premier League in 2004
Clattenburg refereed the Euro 2016 final
"I was recently voted the best referee in the world at the Global Soccer and IFFHS awards 2016.
"Therefore I bring a wealth of knowledge and a passion for improving refereeing and education here in Saudi Arabia.
"I am very humbled by this exciting opportunity to work here in Saudi Arabia, looking to support and educate the referees. To use my expertise in refereeing some matches and bring referees from other countries around the world to introduce the standard of referees here.
"With the full support of (Saudi football president) Adel bin Mohammad Ezzat the Saudi Arabian referee department, stakeholders, the clubs, players, their families and the media I am very confident (this it will be a success)."