The mouthwatering sum Premier League referees actually earn

There are currently 21 full-time referees in the top-flight.

JOE answered some of the most asked question regarding referees ahead of the new season.

Who employs the Prem referees?

Premier League referees are employed by Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL)

PGMOL also take charge of training, mentoring and the development of referees, as well as being responsible for selecting officials for each matchday.

How much do the Prem referees earn?

Premier League referees are referred to as Select Group One (SG1).

There are currently 21 full-time Premier League referees, and the average salary is £180,000, as well as a match fee added on top of that.

SG1 referees can also earn extra money for officiating European and international matches.

The average salary for assistant referees is £110,000, which was recently confirmed by the referees' chief Howard Webb.

How do Prem refs earnings compare to Championship refs?

'Select Group 2' referees officiate Championship games and often are fourth officials at Premier League matches.

It's understood that Championship referees receive a baseline salary of £120,000, plus additional match fees on top of this.

Referees and bonuses

Premier League referees can earn performance related bonuses.

Performances are reviewed throughout the season by an independent Key Match Incidents Panel, made up of former players and coaches.