Michael Kempter accused the former German Football Association (DFB) refereeing panel spokesman Manfred Amerell of sexually abusing him over a period of years.

Amerell immediately resigned from the DFB and attempted to take Kempter to court for what he claimed to be defamatory remarks, but eventually dropped his case when it became clear there was too much evidence against him.

At the same time, Kempter, 27, was temporarily suspended and has not officiated at a match since the allegations were made public in February.

However, the DFB are now considering his reinstatement from next season.

"We would be failing in our duty as a refereeing commission if we did not try to make use of his talent and ability in a meaningful way in refereeing and, therefore, in football," explained the newly-appointed DFB refereeing commission president Herbert Fandel.

"In light of what we have learnt in the last few months, the commission believes it is now time for Kempter to be employed again in inter-regional games, but not yet in the highest classes, and we will at the same time monitor his performances and personality carefully."