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The PGMOL has terminated the contract of David Coote following an investigation into his statements against Jurgen Klopp.
The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), the body in charge of Premier League referees, has terminated the contract of David Coote after an investigation confirmed he was in breach of conduct.
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16:34 - 11.11.2024
PGMOL investigates Coote's controversial comments on Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool
The circulated video on social media shows Coote using offensive language towards Klopp and Liverpool.
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20:32 - 21.10.2024
Saliba red card update: PGMOL responds to Arsenal fans after accusations of Howard Webb's influence
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What happened?
A video surfaced a few weeks ago from the 2019/20 season showing the referee making derogatory comments about erstwhile Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.
Coote appeared to be discussing a game in which he was fourth official involving the Reds and Burnley. He seemed to have had a scuffle with Klopp during the game, and while out with friends, he described the German in colourful words.
“He accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me,” Coote said in the video.
“I’ve got no interest in speaking to someone who’s f***ing arrogant. I do my best not to speak to him. You can see me there with mask on. Social distancing—10 meters apart. But my God, German c***, f*** me.”
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He was subsequently suspended by the PGMOL on November 11, and an investigation ensued. The aftermath is the termination of Coote, who was found to have indeed been in breach of his contract.
PGMOL statement
“Following the conclusion of a thorough investigation into David Coote’s conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect.”
“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.”
According to the Athletic, Coote is not in the clear yet, as the FA is conducting a separate investigation, as his referring to Klopp's nationality in that context could be construed as discrimination and could hence, warrant appropriate sanction.
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