SOCCER players are being prevented from becoming referees by the same authorities who are urging them to make the switch.

The BEN can today reveal that one of soccer's major initiatives, launched by the Professional Footballers Association and backed by the Football Association, is doomed to failure.

Almost three years ago the PFA responded to widespread opinion that ex-professional players would make better referees by urging them to join the ranks of the men in black.

But the BEN has learned that of the 15 stars to respond to the call - including ex-England star Nigel Clough and former Bolton Wanderers midfielder Neil McDonald - 14 have dropped out leaving only ex-Wanderers striker Tony Philliskirk striving and struggling to beat the system.

Ironically, it is the very system that the authorities use to train their referees to Football League standard which is blocking their way.

Philliskirk is widely regarded as an outstanding refereeing prospect, a view supported last week when he picked up two referee of the year awards.

His marks and assessments have been top of the class during his progress from parks football to running the line in the Unibond League, just two tiers below the Football League.

But the Unibond League cannot, according to the rules, make him a referee until he can commit himself to refereeing on Saturdays - creating a Catch 22 situation as Philliskirk, like all players, must play on Saturdays.

It is just one of the obstacles the present system puts in front of players and the PFA and FA are well aware there is little chance of professional players making it as men in black under the present system.

FA press officer Adrian Bevington admitted: "It's very difficult but not impossible. But it would be easier for players who retire early or young players who don't quite make the grade."

Concerned PFA chairman Gordon Taylor added: "We are very pleased with Tony Philliskirk's progress and we would hope he will be given every chance to progress into the Football League but there needs to be a level playing field for them which isn't the case at the moment."

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