Referee David Coote Suspended Amid Controversy Over Derogatory Comments About Liverpool

Premier League referee David Coote has been suspended following the circulation of a video that allegedly shows him making disparaging remarks about Liverpool and former manager Jürgen Klopp.

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) announced that the suspension is effective immediately and will remain in place while a full investigation is conducted.

The video, which has gained traction on social media, has not yet been authenticated by the BBC, and the timing of its recording remains uncertain.

Coote, 42, officiated Liverpool’s recent 2-0 win over Aston Villa and is regarded as one of the most seasoned referees in the Premier League, having been officiating since 2018. The content of the video seems to reference a match he oversaw between Liverpool and Burnley in July 2020, which ended in a 1-1 draw. After that match, Klopp openly criticized Coote for failing to call fouls against Liverpool players.

As part of PGMOL regulations, referees must declare their club affiliations. Coote, hailing from Nottingham, is known to support Notts County, which prohibits him from officiating their matches or those of Nottingham Forest.

PGMOL has stated that no further comments will be made until the investigation concludes.

Context of the Burnley Match

In July 2020, with their first Premier League title secured, Liverpool aimed to achieve the unprecedented feat of winning every home game in the season. They were on a 24-match winning streak at Anfield, holding a significant 25-point advantage over Manchester City.

Additionally, Klopp’s squad was targeting the milestone of 100 points in a 38-game Premier League season, hoping to replicate Manchester City’s achievement from the 2017-18 season.

Liverpool initially took the lead against Burnley through Andrew Robertson, but Jay Rodriguez equalized for the visitors.

Following the match, Klopp was seen disputing decisions with Coote and his officials. He expressed his frustration, noting, “The referee let lots of challenges go… We were angry with the referee, but we also need to look at ourselves for not finishing the game.” Unfortunately, Liverpool’s hopes of reaching 100 points were dashed when they lost their next match against Arsenal.