Premier League referee David Coote is under investigation by the Football Association (FA) for allegedly discussing issuing a yellow card with a friend before a match. The allegations stem from a booking received by Leeds United’s Ezgjan Alioski during a Championship game against West Bromwich Albion in October 2019. Coote has denied the claims, stating that his personal life has never influenced his decision-making on the field and that he has always upheld the integrity of the game.
The FA described the allegations as “very serious” and is conducting an investigation urgently. The Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) also released a statement affirming their commitment to integrity and taking appropriate action if any breach of the code is proven. Leeds United expressed confidence in the regulatory processes of the FA, EFL, and PGMOL.
Coote was previously suspended by the PGMOL after making offensive remarks about Jurgen Klopp and a video allegedly showing him sniffing white powder surfaced. He has also been suspended from refereeing in UEFA competitions and is under investigation for a potential breach of FA rules related to his comments about Klopp. The PGMOL stated that Coote remains suspended and subject to an ongoing disciplinary process separate from the FA investigation.
The situation involving Coote has raised concerns about the integrity of refereeing in football and has sparked widespread scrutiny and debate. The FA, PGMOL, and UEFA are closely monitoring the situation and will take appropriate action based on the outcome of their investigations.
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