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Premier League Referee Suspended Following Controversial Video
David Coote, a referee in the Premier League, has been suspended after a video surfaced on social media, allegedly depicting him making offensive remarks about Liverpool and its former manager, Jurgen Klopp. The refereeing organization, PGMOL, announced that the suspension is effective immediately and will remain in place while a thorough investigation is conducted.
The authenticity of the video remains unverified, and its origin is yet to be confirmed. While the BBC has noted that it cannot authenticate the footage, sources indicate that PGMOL is treating the content as legitimate.
At 42 years old, Coote is one of the league’s most seasoned referees, having taken charge of Premier League matches since 2018. His most recent assignment was overseeing Liverpool’s match against Aston Villa, which Liverpool won 2-0.
The controversial video seems to reference a Premier League encounter from July 2020 between Liverpool and Burnley that ended in a 1-1 draw. Following that match, Klopp publicly criticized Coote’s officiating, pointing out that he overlooked several fouls against Liverpool players.
In the video, a person purported to be Coote remarks on Klopp’s prior criticisms, describing the manager as “arrogant” and using profane language. The footage, which lasts just over one minute, features Coote alongside another individual, but the context of how the video became public is unclear.
PGMOL has stated that it will refrain from further comments until the internal investigation concludes. Reports indicate that Liverpool is aware of the video’s existence but has opted not to issue a statement at this time.
English Football League chairman Rick Parry expressed confidence in PGMOL’s handling of the situation, stating, “They have suspended him and acted quickly. They will ensure that the matter is addressed thoroughly and professionally.”
In addition to this incident, it is noteworthy that referees are obligated to declare their club affiliations to PGMOL. Coote, hailing from Nottingham, is registered as a supporter of Notts County, preventing him from officiating matches involving either Notts County or Nottingham Forest.
Source
www.bbc.com