Embattled Premier League referee David Coote has broken his silence as new allegations emerge amid an ongoing investigation by the Football Association. Coote, who is currently suspended following a series of controversial events, vehemently maintains that his personal problems have never interfered with his duties as a referee.
The referee’s situation worsened after an old video clip circulated online showing him mocking former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp with derogatory terms. This led to Coote’s suspension, who was then re-tested when a video emerged of him apparently consuming a white powder.
Before this second video was released, UEFA acted quickly to announce Coote’s suspension on November 11, ahead of upcoming UEFA matches, due to his inappropriate conduct. A UEFA spokesperson stressed the seriousness of the situation, saying: “The UEFA Referees Committee has immediately suspended David Coote until further notice.”
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Despite the growing controversies, Coote has refrained from commenting extensively on previous incidents. Nonetheless, Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) have released statements expressing concern for Coote’s welfare, emphasizing their commitment to looking after him during this tumultuous time.
Now a new allegation has emerged claiming Coote had an inappropriate discussion before refereeing a Championship match between Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion in October 2019. Reports suggest Coote advised a friend regarding a yellow card, stating: “I hope you bet as discussed”. The FA has recognized the seriousness of these allegations and is treating them with urgency.
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In a definitive response, Coote said: “I strongly dispute these false and defamatory allegations. My personal issues have never influenced my decision-making on the field. The integrity of the game has always been paramount in my refereeing career , and I approached each match with impartiality and diligence.”
Details of the conversation apparently reveal that Coote had been in contact with a Leeds supporter he had met online, discussing the Leeds v West Brom match. In the exchange of messages, Coote would have recognized the importance of the upcoming meeting.
According to reports, Ezgjan Alioski received a yellow card in the 18th minute of the match, which Leeds won 1-0. Football analysts concluded that the warning was justified.
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In their official statement, the PGMOL remarked: “These very serious allegations require thorough investigation. We have a zero-tolerance policy regarding violations of our Integrity Code of Conduct, which all officials sign annually. Action will be taken taken if violations are proven.” Coote remains suspended, undergoing disciplinary processes with the PGMOL while the FA continues its independent investigation.
Leeds United also addressed the accusations, expressing confidence in the regulatory bodies involved: “We acknowledge the allegations regarding the conduct of a match official relating to our Championship match against West Brom. We have full confidence in the processes of the FA, EFL and PGMOL and we will refrain from any further comment at this stage.”
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