Nottinghamshire-born Premier League referee David Coote suspended for alleged foul-mouthed Jurgen Klopp rant

Nottinghamshire-born referee David Coote is being investigated by the PGMOL after a video surfaced appearing to show him making derogatory comments about Liverpool and the club’s former manager, Jurgen Klopp.

In the footage, a man who appears to be Coote calls Klopp a “German c**t” before adding that “Liverpool are s**t”. It’s unknown when the clip was taken but it has been widely shared on X (formerly Twitter), prompting an inquiry from the PGMOL.

A second video shows the same man asking that the footage is never shared, out of fear it could end his career.

An official statement from the Premier League’s refereeing body reads: “David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation. PGMOL will be making no further comment until that process is complete.”

Coote’s alleged words have understandably caused a stir among Premier League supporters, especially those connected with Liverpool. The Times reports the investigation could see Coote struck off as a professional referee if he is proven guilty.

If that ends up being the case, Saturday’s clash between Liverpool and Aston Villa would be his last match officiating in English football. Coote is yet to make a public statement to address the situation but any comment will be reported in due course.