PGMOL decides the fate of controversial referee David Coote
Following a disturbing video of David Coote a referee in the English premier league the PGMOL have made a final decision on his future as an official.
The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has issued a statement regarding the future of controversial referee David Coote.
Coote had been suspended last month and placed under investigation by PGMOL after a video allegedly showing him making derogatory comments about Liverpool and their former manager Jürgen Klopp surfaced on social media.
In the video, a man, believed to be Coote, was heard saying, "Liverpool were s**."* When questioned about Klopp, he allegedly described him as "a c**. Absolute c***,"* citing past interactions, including an incident during a lockdown match between Liverpool and Burnley. The man added, "I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody who’s f**ing arrogant. [James] Milner’s alright. I get on with Milner."*
On Monday, following the conclusion of the investigation, PGMOL released a statement confirming Coote's dismissal.
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The statement read, "After a thorough investigation into David Coote’s conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated with immediate effect. Coote’s actions were determined to be a serious breach of his employment contract, rendering his position untenable."
It further emphasized, "While his employment has ended, we remain committed to supporting David Coote and his welfare. He retains the right to appeal this decision."
Coote’s final match as referee was Liverpool’s 2-0 victory against Aston Villa at Anfield on November 9, with goals from Darwin Núñez and Mohamed Salah.
Reports last month suggested that Coote might have an opportunity to continue his career abroad, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a potential destination. According to the Daily Mail, Saudi officials could offer him a lifeline to resume officiating, should he choose to leave English football.
The report noted, "Saudi Arabia may provide an escape route for David Coote if he is sacked, with some seeing his position in English football as unsalvageable. This could present him with a chance to rebuild his career in the Middle East."
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