Referee David Coote has been sacked after videos circulated of him making foul comments about Jurgen Klopp and of him sniffing what appeared to be white powder.
Coote was immediately suspended by the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) when they discovered the videos last month.
An investigation began which has since concluded on Monday afternoon, with Coote seeing his contract terminated with immediate effect.
A statement from PGMOL read: “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 has been sacked
Reuters
“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.”
A video appearing to show Coote emerged on November 11 where it saw the referee making disparaging comments about former Liverpool boss Klopp, as well as the club.
It sparked a major debate over bias shown by referees, an issue that the PGMOL have been keen to stamp out.
However, two days later, another video emerged where Coote was seen allegedly sniffing a white powder.
The PGMOL said that they would take the videos ‘very seriously’ while the second piece of footage appeared to be during the summer European Championship.
Coote had been hired as a VAR official for the tournament.
In the video showing Coote criticising Klopp, he branded the German coach ‘arrogant’ as well as referring to his nationality in an expletive-filled rant.
While not possible to authenticate its validity, it appeared to be after Liverpool’s 1-1 draw against Burnley in 2020 during lockdown.
David Coote had been disparaging comments about Jurgen Klopp
Reuters
Klopp had criticised the refereeing decisions, saying Coote failed to give fouls on his players.
It remains to be seen what action Coote will take and he has the right to appeal the decision.
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A video of David Coote criticising Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp emerged on social media last month
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The 42-year-old is one of the most experienced referees in the Premier League, having taken charge of his first game in 2018.
His last match as referee came on November 9 when Liverpool beat Aston Villa 2-0 at Anfield.
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