Northampton's Kirkup in line for World Cup role
Northampton assistant referee Peter Kirkup is in line for a role at next year's World Cup finals.
The former Roade School pupil has returned home after running the line during the FIFA Confederations Cup tournament in South Africa, which reaches its climax this weekend.
Kirkup, 38, ran the line as part of top referee Howard Webb's three-man team for Iraq's goalless draw with New Zealand in Johannesburg, and Brazil's 4-3 win over Egypt in Bloemfontein.
Now, keen Northampton Town fan Kirkup, who was involved in the Carling Cup final earlier this year, is one of three English assistant referees in the running to officiate at the World Cup in 2010.
He is on the Premier League elite list and a regular Champions League and international match official.
And his hopes of having a World Cup role were given a boost by the performance of the English trio of officials at the Confederations Cup, where Webb, Kirkup and fellow assistant ref Mike Mullarkey were singled out for praise for their teamwork.
"It was a fantastic experience," said Kirkup. "It was my first time in Africa and the people were so friendly. Everyone there is very proud of South Africa hosting the World Cup and they are determined to show it off positively.
"The football wasn't too different to what we are involved with in Europe, but it was good experience in terms of things like the different reaction of players to decisions, their body language and the way they spoke at the end of games.
"We have to wait to see if Howard is selected as a referee for the tournament. There are 38 referees under consideration for possibly 24 places and if Howard makes it then he will take two officials with him. That will be out of me, Mike and Darren Cann."
Kirkup works as a programme delivery manager for Barclaycard at their Brackmills headquarters, although two years ago he had to reduce his hours to meet his football commitments.
He spent 60 days away last season involved in Champions League and international games, and expects another busy season when the Premier League kicks off again in August.
Kirkup, an official for 21 years, can carry on as an assistant referee at the highest level until at least the age of 45.
He added: "I never got picked for my club, Roade, so I did a referee's course and it progressed from there.
"I've travelled the world and it's been fantastic. Now I've got my fingers crossed for the World Cup."
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