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Mark Clattenburg to referee Chelsea game for first time since John Obi Mikel race row

Official was accused of using 'inappropriate language' towards the Blues midfielder

Tom Dutton
Monday 22 April 2013 16:44 BST
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Mark Clattenburg with John Obi Mikel
Mark Clattenburg with John Obi Mikel

Mark Clattenburg will return to Stamford Bridge on Sunday to officiate a game for the first time since his reputation was rocked by racism claims.

The 38-year-old faced allegations that he had made racist remarks towards Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel, in the Blues' 3-2 home defeat to Manchester United, in October last year.

Clattenburg was cleared of all wrong-doing by The FA on 23 November and returned to officiating the following Wednesday. He said in a statement at the time: "To know you were innocent of something but that there was the opportunity for it to wreck your career was truly frightening."

Chelsea's next home game, against Swansea City on Sunday 28 April, marks Clattenburg's first appearance at Stamford Bridge in six months, since the accusations were brought against him. The Fifa-listed referee will be hoping the game passes without incident, as the Blues continue their pursuit of a Champions League spot.

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