Premier League referee David Coote has been dismissed following the release of videos showing him making offensive remarks about Jürgen Klopp and Liverpool, and allegedly engaging in behavior that appeared to involve white powder. Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) announced shortly after the first video surfaced on November 11 that Coote had been suspended pending an investigation. On Monday, PGMOL confirmed that his position had become untenable.
Coote was also removed from his duties by UEFA and is under separate investigation by the Football Association (FA) for his comments about Klopp. The FA is also looking into allegations that Coote discussed issuing a yellow card before a game. These allegations stem from messages exchanged before and after Coote officiated the Championship match between Leeds and West Brom in October 2019, where he issued a booking to Leeds defender Ezgjan Alioski. Coote vehemently denied these allegations, stating: "Whatever personal issues I may have faced, they have never influenced my decisions on the field."
In a statement released on Monday, PGMOL said: "Following a comprehensive investigation into David Coote's conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated with immediate effect. David Coote's actions were found to be in serious violation of the terms of his employment contract, rendering his position untenable." PGMOL also emphasized the importance of supporting Coote and remains committed to his welfare, noting that he has the right to appeal the decision.
The video allegedly showing Coote sniffing a white powder was published by The Sun two days after his comments about Klopp came to light. The Guardian has been unable to verify the footage independently, but PGMOL stated that it was taking the allegations "very seriously" and was committed to providing Coote with the necessary support during this period.
Coote harshly criticizes Klopp in the footage, which appears to be from the 2020-21 season. The video includes a profanity-laden segment where he refers to the then Liverpool manager as "arrogant." Coote also makes derogatory remarks about Klopp's nationality and Liverpool's performance. The second video, according to The Sun, dates from this summer's European Championship, where Coote served as an official.
Coote refereed his first Premier League game in 2018 and officiated the 2023 Carabao Cup final. In the first video, Coote and another individual appear to be violating COVID regulations by sitting close together, with Coote sarcastically remarking: "We're 2 meters apart."
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