Mark Clattenburg says Rebecca Welch becoming the first female referee for an EFL game will help more women be accepted in men's football. Welch, the highest-ranking female referee in English football, will take charge of the League Two clash between Harrogate Town and Port Vale on Monday. Former Premier League referee Clattenburg, who has taken charge of a number of high-profile matches, including the Champions League final and Euro 2016 final, believes it is not only a positive move for Welch personally, but also for women in football. She was thrown into the spotlight in October 2020 when Manchester City's Sergio Aguero put his arm around her while talking to her during a game - a move seen as inappropriate by some. "But unfortunately, like we have in football week in, week out, everybody has an opinion.

Source: Sky sports April 02, 2021 06:02 UTC