Collina’s comeback

Italy’s most famous referee Pierluigi Collina is set to take an active role in the game once again as a technical adviser to the Association of Italian Referees.

One of the game’s most respected officials, Collina became something of a cult figure all over the football world before his retirement in 2005.

The Bologna-born financial adviser has been working for Sky Italia since his exit after signing a two-year contract worth around £470,000. However, he has now opted to take the role of technical adviser to the nation’s officials – a voluntary post.

“I’ve talked things through with Sky and we found a way that this can suit everyone,” he explained. “In my opinion the preparation of referees is a crucial part of the profession. The work interests me and I’m sure it’ll be a great success.”

Meanwhile, the chief of the Association of Italian Referees Cesare Gussoni will take charge of the appointment of referees for Serie A and B matches while a permanent replacement for Stefano Tedeschi is sought.

Tedeschi unexpectedly quit after less than six months in the job and there had been speculation that Collina would take his position.