Howard Webb retires from refereeing football as viral pics mock 'Manchester United allegiance'

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Howard Webb retires after 25 years as a referee at the top level
Took charge of both Champions League and World Cup finals in 2010
Accused online of being biased towards Manchester United over the years

By ALEX SHARP FOR MAILONLINE

Published: 11:02 EST, 6 August 2014 | Updated: 03:23 EST, 7 August 2014

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Howard Webb has retired from refereeing after 25 years officiating the beautiful game.

The Englishman heads into a new role as technical director of Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL).

Webb was a highly regarded official and took charge of more than 500 Barclays Premier League and Football League matches. He also officiated in two World Cups, two European Championships and the Champions League.

However over the years Webb has been accused of being a secret Manchester United fan due to some of his decisions involving the Premier League giants. Here are some of the best virals posted after Webb’s announcement.

VIDEO Scroll down to watch Howard Webb score a cheeky Panenka penalty

United fan? Many rival football supportershave accused Howard Webb of favouring Man United over the years

Good luck: Manchester City posted on their Twitter account a cheeky message to Webb

Celebrate good times: Webb has been targeted online for apparently favouring United

Conincidence: United have enjoyed a lot of success during Webb's time as a referee

What a picture: Sir Alex Ferguson was very vocal with referees when manager at Manchester United

Statue: An image indicates Howard Webb has been as influential as Ferguson in United's success

Devastating: Rival fans continue to mock the significance of Webb's retirement to United

New signing: Don't worry this is a fake! But a host of football fans believe Webb supported United

However this might show Webb didn't show an allegiance to Manchester United with Manchester City and Arsenal receiving more points in matches under Webb's officiating...