David Coote, a Premier League referee since 2017, has recently been embroiled in controversy after allegations surfaced regarding his use of offensive language towards Liverpool FC and Jürgen Klopp, as well as suspicions of drug use. A video showing Coote making derogatory comments led to his suspension by UEFA. Additionally, a report claimed he was seen using a substance believed to be cocaine. These incidents raise concerns about the integrity of English officiating amidst increasing scrutiny.
David Coote: A Controversial Figure in Football Officiating
David Coote has largely remained under the radar as a referee in top-tier football. The English official has been part of the Premier League since the 2017/2018 season, yet he has yet to make his mark as a main referee in international tournaments. Nonetheless, he did take on a role as a video referee during Euro 2024.
Former Premier League referee Peter Walton described Coote in the “Times” as “Captain Reasonable,” noting that he sometimes appears overly anxious. Walton pointed out that it’s rare to see Coote sharing a light moment with players during matches.
Recent Controversies Surrounding Coote
This week, Coote has captured headlines for reasons far removed from controversial officiating decisions. Allegations have emerged regarding him using offensive language towards Liverpool FC and their former manager, Jürgen Klopp, alongside suspicions of drug use. A video from the 2020/2021 season has surfaced, showing Coote making derogatory remarks about Liverpool and Klopp, which has now led to his immediate suspension by UEFA.
In the video, Coote, now 42, is seen on a couch with another individual recording their conversation. When asked about Liverpool and Klopp after serving as fourth official in a match that ended poorly for the team, Coote’s comments were disparaging, using explicit language to describe both the club and Klopp.
Additionally, he accused Klopp of dishonesty regarding a match referee decision during a Liverpool vs. Burnley match in July 2020, claiming he had no desire to engage with someone he considered “damn arrogant.” Despite officiating eight Liverpool matches during Klopp’s tenure, Coote’s decisions have not raised suspicions of bias against the team.
Following the emergence of this video, the English referee association PGMOL and UEFA moved quickly to suspend Coote, who was slated to work as a video assistant referee during the current international break. Previous discussions indicated that Coote wished to keep the footage private, with supporters suggesting it should not damage his career. Ironically, that now appears inevitable.
In a further twist, the tabloid “Sun” reported on another video that allegedly shows Coote using a white powder, presumed to be cocaine. This footage reportedly originated from a hotel room shortly after Coote served as assistant video referee for a Euro quarter-final match. UEFA has announced an investigation into this potential breach of disciplinary codes, with both the Football Association and PGMOL already looking into the incidents.
This situation casts a shadow on the credibility and professionalism of the English refereeing body, which has faced increasing scrutiny under the leadership of Howard Webb. Since taking charge in December 2022, Webb has aimed to enhance transparency by introducing the “Mic’d Up” format, where he reviews and explains controversial match decisions.
Coote’s case highlights the immense pressure referees face in the current football landscape. The intricate nature of the game, coupled with harsh performance evaluations and a frequently hostile environment, adds to the psychological strain. While coaches like Klopp have sometimes made it challenging for referees, PGMOL has stated that they remain committed to supporting Coote during this tumultuous time. However, his future as a Premier League referee remains uncertain.