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History-making Premier League legend retires immediately after featuring in Man City vs Crystal Palace match

Published on April 12, 2025 at 01:28 PM

PREMIER LEAGUE mainstay Darren Cann has officially retired from assistant refereeing.

Cann, 58, has been running the line in the English top-flight for over 25 years and is one of the most recognised officials in the country.

Assistant linesman Darren Cann at a soccer match.
Assistant referee Darren Cann has retired from officiating
Three soccer referees at halftime.
Cann began his officiating journey all the way back in 1991
Assistant linesman Darren Cann at a soccer match.
Cann has officiated the most matches in Premier League history

But after helping officiate 579 Premier League fixtures – the most of any official in the competition's history – the veteran linesman has decided to hang up his flag.

Cann's final Prem appearance came in Manchester City's 5-2 win over at the Etihad on Saturday afternoon.

Ahead of the game, Cann said: “It’s been an honour to serve the professional game for the last 25 years.

“Officiating the World Cup final and the final are memories I will cherish forever.

“But, above all, I’m proud of the fact I’ve given 100 per cent in every single match throughout my career.

“I would like to thank every single person who has helped and supported me to work in this wonderful sport, PGMOL and as well as all of the clubs, managers, players and fans that have made the Premier League the greatest league in the world.

“It’s been the privilege of my life to serve the game that I love.”;

Cann, who played in Crystal Palace's youth team as a striker alongside , began his journey in 1991.

Three referees running on a soccer field.
Darren Cann was part of the officiating team for the 2010 Champions League and World Cup finals

It would take him ten years to be promoted to the League, where he'd officiate for four.

Cann would go on to represent England on the global stage, taking part in 140 international fixtures – including games at the Euro 2008 and the 2010 and 2014 World Cups in South Africa and Brazil.

He was part of the refereeing team that officiated the 2010 Champions League and World Cup finals.

PMGOL chief Howard Webb, who knows Cann all too well having worked alongside him in the Champions League and World Cup finals, was quick to pay tribute to the retiring official.

He said: “As I know first-hand from working with Darren on many matches.

“He is an official of extraordinary talent and he has performed at the very highest level with distinction.

“His professionalism and dedication have made him an outstanding ambassador for English officiating.

“We wish him all the very best as he steps away from the field.

“Though we’re sure his impact will continue to be felt for many years to come.”

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