FA initiates its own inquiry into suspended referee David Coote following claims of derogatory comments about Liverpool.
In a developing story that has sent shockwaves through the football community, Premier League referee David Coote is now under investigation by both the Football Association (FA) and the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL). This situation arises following the emergence of a video on social media, which allegedly shows Coote making disparaging remarks about Liverpool FC and their former manager, Jürgen Klopp.
The video, which has yet to be verified, has raised serious concerns. In response, the PGMOL has taken immediate action by suspending Coote while a thorough investigation is conducted. The FA has also stepped in, launching their own inquiry into the matter. “We are aware of the matter, and we are investigating it,” the FA stated, as reported by the BBC.
Coote, who has been officiating in the Premier League since 2018, was in charge during Liverpool’s recent 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at Anfield last weekend. His officiating history with the Reds also includes matches against Brighton & Hove Albion in March and Fulham in January, both of which ended in Liverpool victories.
The controversial video reportedly features Coote using foul language to describe Klopp, who departed Anfield in the summer. The PGMOL confirmed Coote’s suspension in a statement released on Monday, which read: “David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation. PGMOL will be making no further comment until that process is complete.”
Howard Webb, the chief refereeing officer at PGMOL and a former Premier League referee himself, is overseeing the situation. However, it remains unclear whether he will be directly involved in the investigation into Coote’s conduct.
As of now, the FA has not provided any additional information regarding the specifics of their investigation or how they plan to proceed. The football world will be watching closely as this story unfolds, with many eager to see the outcome of the inquiries into Coote’s alleged remarks.