But the PGMO does not want a situation where referees regularly face 'trial by television'.

BBC: Ref Styles admits penalty mistake

But contrary to some reports, he was not restricted by PGMO guidelines from doing so.

BBC: Ref Styles admits penalty mistake

The Professional Game Match Official Board (PGMO) told the BBC that Styles spoke to Bolton on Monday to apologise.

BBC: Ref Styles admits penalty mistake

But the PGMO insists that referees are not automatically demoted when they make a high-profile mistake, merely that they are being taken out of the spotlight for a week or so.

BBC: Ref Styles admits penalty mistake

"Referees, should they so wish, have the opportunity to conduct post-match media interviews, after 30 minutes' 'cool-down' time, to clarify any point of law, " said a spokesman for PGMO, the body responsible for top referees.

BBC: Ref Styles admits penalty mistake