Drink-driving shame of Hibs Euro referee

The referee who will take charge of Hibs' Europa League match here in Maribor tomorrow night has endured the shame of being caught drinking and driving, it was revealed today.

Martin Ingvarsson, Sweden's most experienced whistler having taken charge of more than 300 matches, was stopped by police near his home in Hassleholm at the end of May and breathalysed.

The 44-year-old consultant was found to be over the limit and was fined and banned from driving.

Ingvarsson, who is in his last year as a UEFA referee, claimed to have had some wine earlier in the evening but felt capable of driving.

Of the incident, he said: "I am ashamed and it will, of course, impact my behaviour.

"I am ashamed and accepted the consequences of my actions and that means I have paid my fine and that I am without a licence for eight months.

"I have apologised to my family and colleagues. This has made me grow and is something that I should take lessons from."

Ingvasson reported the matter to the Swedish FA immediately but insisted it would have no bearing on his ability to referee both at home and abroad.