Clattenburg: Hitting peak in 2016 influenced me to move

EX-PREMIER League referee Mark Clattenburg insists he can now finally “enjoy” watching Newcastle United after quitting English football.

The Consett-born official controversially left the English top flight to move to the Middle East last year to become the Saudi Arabian Football Federation’s head of refereeing.

As a Newcastle supporter, Clattenburg was unable to officiate the Magpies’ matches during 17-year career in England.

The 43-year-old made the decision to leave England having refereed the Champions League, FA Cup and Euro 2016 finals all within the space of two months.

He believed he had reached the high point, and has warned fellow Geordie Michael Oliver – who is regarded as the best official in England – that you can achieve too much, too soon.

“Definitely [i felt i had reached the top and was exhausted],” Clattenburg told the Daily Mail.

“i’d put so much into that year [2016] — commitment, fitness. it just exploded, getting all of the finals in one go.

“The only thing left after that was getting to a World Cup, and that’s my only regret.”

“i was given a chance and, financially, i could look after my family.

He added: “At least i can watch Newcastle with a little bit of enjoyment instead of watching the referee.”

Clattenburg also revealed who the “hardest player” he ever had to referee was – with former Newcastle forward Craig Bellamy the ‘winner’ of that title.