Frank Christian
David Coote, a referee in the Premier League, has been put on suspension following the release of a video online that shows him making offensive remarks directed at Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool.
Coote officiated the Reds’ recent 2-0 victory over Aston Villa, which positioned Liverpool five points ahead in the league standings. In the controversial clip, he reportedly referred to Klopp as “f—— arrogant” and made an offensive comment about him being a “German c—.”
The Professional Games Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), the organization overseeing refereeing in English football, released a statement on November 11 regarding the situation.
“David Coote has been suspended immediately while a thorough investigation is conducted. PGMOL will refrain from commenting further until this process is concluded,” the statement indicated.
Coote has not yet made a statement himself, and the origins of the video are unclear. It’s important to note that there is a possibility the footage could be a fabricated “deepfake” using artificial intelligence technology.
If the video is authentic, it could significantly impact Coote’s career and is certainly shocking to see.
Content of the Alleged Video Regarding Jurgen Klopp
The leaked video, which appears to have been recorded during England’s COVID-19 restrictions, has not been confirmed for authenticity and might be a deepfake .
Nonetheless, this situation calls for PGMOL’s attention since Premier League referees are expected to maintain neutrality.
“What did you think of the Liverpool match when you were the fourth official?” someone asks the individual alleged to be Coote, who responds with, “Liverpool were s—.”
In response to a follow-up question about his opinion on Jurgen Klopp, the man purported to be Coote reacts with, “C—. Absolute c—.”
He continues, discussing a past interaction, stating, “He had a go at me when I officiated their game against Burnley during lockdown, accusing me of lying and being rude.”
Coote adds, “I’m not interested in talking to someone who’s f—— arrogant. I try to avoid him.” He mentions that he gets along with former Liverpool player James Milner.
The man thought to be Coote then shows a picture of himself and Klopp on his phone, wearing a face mask while apparently mocking COVID-19 social distancing measures.
He remarks, “My God, German c—. F— me.” His companion further taunts, “Liverpool are all f—— b—ends, and we hate Scousers.”
Another, shorter clip features the same individual who seems to be Coote saying, “Just to clarify, that f—— last video can’t go anywhere, seriously.”
The second man comments, “He’s a Premier League referee; let’s not f—— ruin his career.”
