Premier League referee Coote suspended after video rant

Premier League official David Coote has been suspended following the emergence of a video in which he allegedly insults Liverpool FC and its former manager, Jurgen Klopp. The video, circulating on social media, appears to show Coote making disparaging comments about Liverpool, calling the club “s***,” and referring to Klopp as a “German c***” while speaking with another individual.

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), which manages officiating for the Premier League, announced Coote’s immediate suspension, stating that a full investigation is underway. PGMOL has declined to provide additional comments until the investigation concludes.

The clip also features a man, alleged to be Coote, recounting past interactions with Klopp, including a game against Burnley during the pandemic lockdown. He describes Klopp as “arrogant” and explains his preference to avoid conversation with him, though he expresses a favorable opinion of Liverpool player James Milner.

Coote officiated Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on Saturday, November 9, but the video appears to have been recorded earlier. This incident has raised significant concerns over impartiality and professionalism, leading to the referee’s suspension while PGMOL completes its review.