TINKER, TAILOR . . .

With so much attention being focused on the referees at France 98, perhaps it’s time to take a closer look at the 34 officials.

Who are these people, anyway?

Well, looking at them by occupation, here’s the breakdown: three businessmen, three customs officers, two company directors, two civil servants, two administrators and two office clerks . . .

A teacher, an immigration officer, a headmaster, an investment analyst, an economist, a bank employee, a surgeon, an industrial technician and a nurse . . .

A financial advisor, a travel agent, a physical education teacher, a public-relations manager, a soccer coach, a telecommunications specialist, an office manager, a referee-program manager, a sales manager and someone in the military.

Oh, yes, and a lawyer.

They’re everywhere, aren’t they?