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English referee David Coote was sacked with immediate effect on Monday, December 9 by England’s referee’s body, Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) following his derogatory remarks on Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool. The decision by the English body came after days of thorough investigation into the matter.
Coote’s actions came into limelight after a video surfaced on social media allegedly showing the 42-year-old referee making disparaging remarks about Liverpool and Klopp. The video also included Coote recalling a match he officiated which saw Liverpool draw 1-1 against Aston Villa.
Referee David Coote sacked after “thorough investigation” into his conduct
However, UEFA promoptly suspended Coote following his actions and initiated thorough investigation into the matter. The Football Association (FA) then launched an investigation immediately after Coote’s initial suspension on November 11. By November 27, further allegation had emerged, accusing Coote of discussing booking a player, resulting in the PGMOL sacking him thereafter.
“Following the conclusion of a thorough investigation into David Coote’s conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect… Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare,” the PGMOL in its statement stated. The body’s decision follows its policy that underscores zero-tolerance approach to misconduct among match officials.
Furthermore, it is to be noted that David Coote has a right to appeal the decision to terminate his employment. Speaking of the 42-old, he was appointed as a Premier League referee for the first time in April 2018. He oversaw 11 games in the top flight during 2018-19 and has gone on to referee 112 Premier League fixtures, including three of Liverpool.
