Premier League referee David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect after a video surfaced on social media, reportedly showing him making derogatory comments about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
The footage appears to capture Coote, 42, calling Klopp “arrogant” and using offensive language.
The origin of the video and the circumstances surrounding its recording remain unclear. However, its release has led to a swift response from the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), the organization responsible for managing referees in England’s top leagues.
PGMOL issued a statement saying: “David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation. PGMOL will be making no further comment until that process is complete.”
Coote recently officiated Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on Saturday, adding an extra layer of attention to this incident.
His suspension highlights the professional conduct expectations referees face, especially given the sensitivity of their role in high-stakes matches.
This incident has stirred significant public discussion, especially among Liverpool fans and followers of Klopp, who left his managerial position in recent years but remains an influential figure in English football.