Suspended Premier League referee David Coote is banned from refereeing two clubs in the English football league system, it has been revealed.
On Monday, a video circulated appearing to show Coote making insulting remarks about Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp.
In the foul-mouthed chat, the man resembles Coote can be seen calling a "German c***" and labeling the 57-year-old f***ing arrogant", while also describing Liverpool as "s***" in a game at Anfield where he was "recently" fourth official.
He also mentioned Klopp "having a right pop" at him when he officiated Liverpool in a game against Burnley at Anfield, but said former midfielder James Milner is "alright".
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In a second video shared, the man claimed to be Coote said: "Just to be clear, that f***ing last video cannot go anywhere, seriously." The other man in the video added, "He's a Premier League referee, let's not ruin his career."
The PGMOL launched an investigation and confirmed that Coote, who refereed Liverpool on Saturday against Aston Villa, had been placed under immediate suspension while the probe takes place.
At first, The Mirror reported that Coote "vehemently denies inappropriate conduct" and was insistent to referee chiefs" that the video was not legitimate.
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But in an update, the outlet then said Coote has since accepted the video is indeed legitimate but he does not recall the content of the discussion, which was filmed several years ago.
Coote is one of the most experienced officials in the top flight and has been refereeing in the Premier League since 2018, having progressed through the ranks.
The 42-year-old, who took charge of the Carabao Cup final between Manchester United and Newcastle in 2023, is from Nottingham and is a supporter of Notts County, meaning he is unable to officiate games involving his team or rivals Nottingham Forest.
This is standard for referees as they cannot be involved in fixtures where allegiances exist.
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Coote hasn't issued a public statement responding to the allegations against him, with Liverpool and Klopp also yet to comment.
Topics: Liverpool
Josh Lawless