Mike Dean will take charge of Arsenal’s FA Cup third round fixture at Blackpool.

Mike Dean, who is despised by Arsenal fans across the planet, last took charge of Arsenal game when they beat Spurs 4-2 at the start of December.

Since then, the refereeing displays we’ve seen from a few refs – namely Martin Atkison – has led to some fans reassessing how they feel about Dean. As annoying as he is, you never feel he puts the player’s safety at risk.

That’s not something you can say about a few other refs in this division.

Anyway, Mike Dean has only refereed one club more than Arsenal – Chelsea, but in large part that is down to his longevity.

In total, he’s taken charge of 67 Arsenal games. Arsenal have won 29 of those, drawn 21 and lost 16. While we’ve won the fewest games of any top side under Dean, we haven’t lost the most. That honour goes to City (20 v 16).

Now aged 50, talk of retirement should be on the horizon, however, he is no longer obliged to hang up his boots at a set age. While many refs give it up around the age of 50-52, you can’t help but think Dean will continue until he’s carried from the pitch – in full view of the cameras, obviously.