Linesman who wore dress shoes will not face action from governing bodies

The assistant referee who wore dress shoes to run the line during a League Two fixture will not face action from the governing bodies.

Hristo Karaivanov did not have his boots for Tranmere versus Morecambe on Boxing Day and instead wore smart black shoes.

Neither team were aware of the linesman's oversight and it only came to light when a supporter posted a picture on social media.

However, there are no rules stating an assistant referee cannot wear different footwear and, while a little embarrassing, Karaivanov will escape punishment from the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL).

Tranmere won 3-1 and those at the game say there were no issues with Karaivanov's performance.

Indeed, sources at both clubs saw the funny side when contacted by Sportsmail and former Swansea striker Lee Trundle posted a picture of Karaivanov alongside the comment: 'When you have to give offside at 3.25 but have a family party at 5 o clock.'

Referee David McNamara was suspended for three weeks by the Football Association in October for using rock, paper, scissors as an alternative to the pre-match coin toss before a Women's Super League match. He accepted a charge of 'not acting in the best interests of the game'.

However, the FA have told us the case of Karaivanov is a matter for the PGMOL, who said the official had not breached any rules.