Premier League official David Coote was sacked on Monday after referee chiefs described his position as “untenable” over a video making derogatory remarks about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
Coote was suspended last month after the video emerged on social media in which he branded Klopp “arrogant” and used offensive language. “Following the conclusion of a thorough investigation into David Coote’s conduct, his employment with PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) has been terminated today with immediate effect,” the PGMOL said in a statement released on Monday.
“David Coote’s actions were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable. Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare. David Coote has a right to appeal the decision to terminate his employment,” added the body.
The footage showed him calling Jurgen Klopp a “German c***” and allegedly calling Liverpool “s***”. The video appeared to refer to a match that Coote officiated between Liverpool and Burnley in July 2020, which finished 1-1. Klopp criticized Coote after the match, saying the referee had been too lenient in his treatment of Burnley challenges.
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Coote is also the subject of UEFA disciplinary proceedings after a video emerged of him allegedly snorting a white powder during Euro 2024. The Football Association is investigating further allegations Coote discussed betting with a fan on giving a yellow card before a match in England’s second-tier Championship. His final Premier League game was Liverpool’s 2-0 win against Aston Villa on November 9.
