Referee David Coote suspended over apparent video of foul-mouthed Klopp rant

David Coote, a referee in the Premier League, has been suspended following the release of video evidence that seems to show him using offensive language towards Jürgen Klopp, referring to him in a derogatory manner, and making negative comments about Liverpool.

A video that appeared on social media on Monday showed Coote stating that Klopp was "arrogant" and had accused him of being dishonest following a game between Liverpool and Burnley during Project Restart in 2020. Coote was the referee for Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on Saturday.

The Professional Game Match Officials Ltd announced that David Coote has been suspended right away while a thorough investigation takes place. They stated that they will not provide any additional comments until the investigation is finished.

When a friend inquired about his thoughts on Klopp, the individual purported to be Coote replied: "Other than him really going off on me when I officiated their match against Burnley during lockdown, he accused me of being dishonest and then really let loose at me. I have absolutely no desire to engage with someone who's so full of himself. So I try my hardest to avoid talking to him… Wow, what a frustrating guy." The insulting comment about Liverpool pertains to the team's performance in a game where Coote was the fourth official.

In a minimally furnished living room, a friend seems to be capturing the discussion on his phone. He sums up his thoughts on the talk by saying, "To put it simply: Jürgen Klopp is terrible, everyone at Liverpool is annoying, and we can't stand Scousers."

In another video, Coote seems to urge viewers not to distribute the original footage. “To clarify, that last video shouldn’t be shared at all—no kidding,” he states. His friend adds, “He’s a referee in the Premier League; we shouldn’t jeopardize someone’s career. We’re not that cruel.”