The Football Association (FA) has initiated a formal investigation into a video circulating on social media that purportedly shows Premier League referee David Coote using offensive language in reference to former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. The video, which has been acknowledged genuine, reportedly includes derogatory remarks about Klopp, including comments on his German nationality. In response to the video’s release, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has suspended Coote pending a thorough inquiry, highlighting the seriousness with which they view the situation.
In a statement, the FA confirmed they are actively investigating the matter, as FA rules stipulate that any derogatory language referencing nationality can constitute an aggravated breach of its regulations. A source within the FA stated, “We are aware of the matter, and we are investigating it.” Meanwhile, Coote has also been withdrawn from an international refereeing commitment this week, further underscoring the growing impact of the situation on his career.
Details of the Alleged Video by David Coote
The video at the center of the controversy is believed to reference a Premier League match between Liverpool and Burnley in July 2020, which ended in a 1-1 draw. In the video, a man alleged to be Coote expresses frustration over Klopp’s criticism following that match, claiming Klopp “had a right pop at me” and describing the Liverpool manager as arrogant. The video reportedly features Coote with another individual, though the exact circumstances surrounding the video’s creation and release remain unclear.
David Coote has been a prominent figure in Premier League officiating since 2018, making this development particularly surprising. The video, though not confirmed to be authentic, has raised significant questions about the potential impact of such remarks if verified. The Professional Game Match Officials Limited has refrained from further comments, noting that they will await the results of their investigation before providing any additional statements.
Referee Community Reacts to Allegations
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean spoke to Sky Sports, expressing shock and disappointment over the video. Dean, who has worked with David Coote, said he found the comments “so out of character” for his former colleague, noting that if proven true, they would “damage everybody involved.” He added that the allegations, if verified, could have repercussions across all levels of officiating, from grassroots referees to those aspiring to officiate at the highest levels of the game.
Dean also touched on the emotional toll the situation could take on David Coote, suggesting that returning to officiating after such a scandal might be challenging. “Would David still want to carry on refereeing?” Dean questioned. “Does he want to put himself through it yet again to come back in?” These remarks highlight the potential long-term implications on David Coote’s career and personal well-being if the allegations are upheld.
Involvement of Forsyth Barnes Employee Adds to Controversy
Further complicating the situation, a recruitment firm, Forsyth Barnes, has suspended an employee named Ben Kitt, who allegedly appears in the video alongside Coote. Forsyth Barnes co-founder Roheel Ahmad confirmed that Kitt has been suspended on full pay as the company conducts its investigation. In a statement to the PA news agency, Ahmad clarified that the video was taken before Kitt joined Forsyth Barnes, but emphasized the company’s commitment to thoroughly understanding the situation.
Opitanglobamedia football has attempted to contact Kitt for comment, though he has not yet responded. Forsyth Barnes’ swift response to the video highlights the far-reaching consequences the footage could have, impacting not only those directly involved but also their professional associates. The situation underscores the level of scrutiny public figures and those associated with them face in today’s digital landscape.
