According to football.london, the Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOL) is conducting an investigation following the disclosure of a video online that purportedly depicts referee David Coote issuing an x-rated verdict against Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp. The Premier League referee appears to strike Klopp and disparage Liverpool in the video.
The individual in the video, who appears to be the Premier League referee, goes on an X-rated tirade when queried about his views on the former Reds manager by an unidentified second person. It appears that he is uttering the following words in the video: “C***, absolute c***.” He accused me of lying and then had a right f***ing blast at me, in addition to having a right snap at me when I was reffing against Burnley in lockdown. I have no desire to engage in conversation with an individual who is so arrogant. I make every effort to avoid conversing with him…
Subsequently, the individual in his vicinity states, “In conclusion, Jurgen Klopp is a c***, Liverpool is a complete shit, and we harbour animosity towards Scousers.”
In December 2023, Coote served as the Video Assistant Referee for Liverpool’s contentious 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Anfield. Martin Odegaard appeared to prevent Mohamed Salah from entering the Arsenal box during the Premier League match by controlling the ball inside the 18-yard box.
The incident was not reviewed by VAR, and Chris Kavanagh, the on-field referee, permitted play to continue. Coote determined that the Arsenal midfielder handled the ball while attempting to mitigate his fall, which is not considered an offence.
After the game, Klopp enquired as to why VAR did not intervene when speaking with reporters. The former Liverpool manager acknowledged, “I have indeed observed it.” I am confident that an individual will arrive to provide me with an explanation as to why it was not a handball, but I am uncertain as to how to do so.
“I do not assert that the referee can observe it, as I am unaware of his location at that precise moment.” However, how could an individual in an office environment fail to recognise that it may be worthwhile for the adjudicator to conduct an additional examination?
Coote, who has been a Premier League referee since April 2018, officiated Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at the weekend.
Liverpool Football Club, the FA, and the Premier League have been contacted for comment.
