Referee David Coote Suspended Over Offensive Klopp Remarks

In a major setback for officiating standards in English football, Premier League referee David Coote has been suspended after a video surfaced that allegedly shows him making derogatory remarks about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. This video, reportedly filmed several years ago, features Coote using offensive language to refer to Klopp, who enjoyed significant success with Liverpool before leaving the club last summer.

The video appears to show Coote speaking openly, referring to Klopp with terms such as “German ----” and “f---ing arrogant,” with the remarks connected to a contentious Liverpool vs. Burnley match during the 2020 lockdown season. In the footage, Coote also mentions a personal confrontation with Klopp, allegedly arising from accusations of bias and dishonesty made by the former Liverpool manager. Additionally, a friend of Coote in the video takes it a step further, making disparaging remarks about Liverpool and its supporters in a way that is unlikely to be well-received by the club or its fans.

In prompt reaction, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) declared the suspension of Coote while a comprehensive investigation is conducted, indicating that they would not provide further comments until the investigation is complete. The seriousness of this situation highlights possible biases within the officiating community, increasing demands for greater transparency and accountability.

Coote, who hails from Nottinghamshire and has been a referee for many years, has encountered his fair share of controversies. Most recently, he officiated Liverpool's 2-0 win against Aston Villa and Newcastle's 1-1 draw in the Carabao Cup against AFC Bournemouth, which included a contentious decision to disallow a late goal for handball. Fans of Newcastle might remember his controversial officiating during their Carabao Cup final loss to Manchester United last year, a match that led to accusations of bias fueled by unfounded rumors regarding Coote's supposed favoritism towards Manchester United.

The purported remarks represent a concerning moment for Coote, who progressed through the ranks of officiating, beginning his journey with the Notts FA in 2004 and subsequently serving as a referee development officer. As the investigation continues, PGMOL’s management of this situation will be carefully observed, given that the sport requires integrity and impartiality from those who enforce its rules and regulations.