A new campaign which highlights the crucial role that match officials play in football has been backed by Arsenal stars Olivier Giroud, Nacho Monreal and Petr Cech.

‘Back The Whistleblowers’, an initiative from online bookmaker Betfair and independent organisation You Are The Ref, is aiming to raise awareness of how difficult it can be to officiate in the sport.

It is also intended to raise funds, with Betfair promising to donate £10 to You Are The Ref for every yellow card issued in the Premier League to date (including this weekend’s games)

Donations will be used to send more grass roots referees on special training courses to help improve the overall standards of refereeing and participation numbers in the UK.