Hundreds of fans blew horns and trumpets as the soft-spoken Irmatov emerged from the airport terminal.

“He made Uzbekistan proud for the second consecutive year and I hope he will continue to fly our flag in the years to come,” an excited Ulugbek Salimov told www.the-afc.com as he jostled to shake hands with the 2010 FIFA World Cup referee candidate.

Another fan Ravil Nazarov, who was carrying a banner welcoming Irmatov home, said: “Our prayers are with him and we hope he will get selected to officiate in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.”

Shukhrat Alibaev said: “His efforts will show the way to young referees of Uzbekistan and it will surely motivate people to take up refereeing.”

“I am overwhelmed by this reception. I am thankful to all those who came to greet me,” a surprised Irmatov said.

“I have seen this kind of reception only for the players and this is unprecedented in Uzbekistan. I hope I will fulfil their expectations.”