Premier League official David Coote has been sacked by referees’ body PGMOL following an investigation into his conduct.
The 42-year-old official was suspended by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited on November 11 after a video allegedly showed him making derogatory comments about ex-Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
In the video, which was widely circulated on social media, Coote called Klopp a ‘c***’.
In another leak, Coote appeared to be sniffing white powder through a rolled up bank note.
A statement from PGMOL read: ‘Following the conclusion of a thorough investigation into David Coote’s conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect.
‘David Coote’s actions were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable.
‘Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare.
‘David Coote has a right to appeal the decision to terminate his employment.’
The first video appeared to show Coote, sitting on a sofa with another person, looking back at a game he officiated between Liverpool and Burnley in July 2020.
Klopp had criticised Euro 2024 official Coote’s officiating after the game.
The FA began a new investigation into Coote at the end of last month following an allegation that he had discussed giving a yellow card before a game between Leeds United and West Brom.
Coote, who refereed a Premier League match for the first time in April 2018, denied any wrongdoing.
He has refereed 112 Premier League games since then and been a Video Assistant Referee for 64 top-flight matches.
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
MORE: ‘Would be perfect’ – Ian Wright questions why Chelsea didn’t sign ex-Arsenal star
MORE: Arsenal legend David Seaman makes big Premier League title race claim
MORE: Gary Neville slams Manchester United over ‘really poor’ and ‘weak’ Dan Ashworth statement
