Mark Clattenburg has resigned from his function as a refereeing marketing consultant with Nottingham Forest, saying his presence had develop into a “hindrance” to the membership.
Retired Premier League referee Clattenburg – who oversaw the 2016 Champions League remaining and the showpiece recreation at Euro 2016 – started the function in February.
The appointment was roundly criticised however Forest – who’ve seen plenty of debatable choices go in opposition to them this season – mentioned it might help their understanding of the decision-making course of and enhance dialogue with refereeing physique Skilled Sport Match Officers Restricted (PGMOL).
Nevertheless, Clattenburg has continued to draw criticism for taking up the function, which intensified when Forest reacted to a 2-0 Premier League defeat at Everton by accusing Stuart Attwell – who was on VAR obligation – of being a fan of relegation rivals Luton City.
That got here after Forest had seen three penalty appeals knocked again at Goodison Park, and Clattenburg prevented condemning Forest’s assertion within the aftermath of the controversy.
Centered on #SHUNFO
— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) Could 2, 2024
On Friday, Forest launched a press release from Clattenburg, who defended his resolution to take the job however acknowledged it had created unexpected difficulties.
Clattenburg mentioned: “It’s now clear that the existence and efficiency of those consultancy companies has induced unintended friction between Nottingham Forest and different contributors, to the extent that it has develop into extra of a hindrance than assist.
“It has additionally led to the unmerited focusing on of me, personally, by sure contributors and pundits.
“Such reactions and outcomes weren’t anticipated and are regrettable, as it’s my honest perception that there’s a place for and worth in such a task within the fashionable recreation.”
