Assistant referee Massey-Ellis retires to take FA role

Assistant referee Sian Massey‑Ellis has announced her retirement from officiating to take up a position with the Football Association.

Massey‑Ellis, who officiated in more than 150 Premier League matches, will start a senior manager role focused on supporting and developing female officials.

Since rising to the Premier League as an assistant referee in 2010 - becoming only the second woman to do so - Massey‑Ellis became the first Englishwoman to officiate in a men's European fixture and first woman to officiate in a men's FA Cup final, as well as being involved in five Women's FA Cup finals.

After announcing her retirement, the 40-year-old said: "Although I am stepping away from the touchline, I am not stepping away from football.

"If my journey has helped change perceptions, open doors or inspire even one young person to believe they belong in the game, then I will consider that one of my greatest achievements."

Massey-Ellis has also officiated on an international stage, representing England at four Uefa Women's Euro tournaments and at the 2019 and 2023 Fifa Women's World Cups.

In the 2017 New Year's Honours, Massey-Ellis received an MBE for her impact on football officiating and commitment to representation.

"While there have been unforgettable highs and difficult moments, what I will treasure most are the people and experiences that have defined my journey," said Massey-Ellis.

"I'm excited by the opportunity to help support, develop and inspire the next generation of match officials, giving something back to a sport that has done so much for me.

"It has been the greatest honour to serve the game I love and represent English officiating. To the young girl who simply loved refereeing and dreamed of reaching the very top - we did it. Thank you, football."