David Coote ‘denies calling Liverpool s*** and Klopp a c***’ in rant as video disputed | Football | Sport

David Coote has reportedly denied any wrongdoing after the Premier League referee was suspended pending an investigation following a leaked video.

The video, which is believed to be from 2020, shows Coote appearing to call the then Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp a ‘c***’.

Coote also refers to Liverpool as ‘s***’ in the foul-mouthed rant, before serving up an explanation for his outburst.

He allegedly says: “Aside from having a right pop at me when I was referee against Burnley during lockdown, then he’s accused me of lying and he has just a right f**king pop at me.

“And I’ve got no interest in speaking to someone who’s f**king arrogant, so I did my best not to speak to him.”

Coote continued on his spout, later referencing a match where he was pictured as the fourth official standing next to Jurgen Klopp, saying: “You can see me there [in a picture on his phone] with a mask on.

“Got to be careful right, we’re social distancing, we’re two metres apart. But my God, German c***. F*** me.”

However, according to The Mirror, Coote is said to ‘vehemently deny inappropriate conduct’ and is believed to contest the legitimacy of the video.

It’s suggested PGMOL chiefs have deployed tech chiefs to examine the video to work out whether it is real.

PGMOL suspended Coote on Monday afternoon, with a statement from the body responsible for refereeing in England reading: “David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation. PGMOL will be making no further comment until that process is complete.”

The English Football Association have also opened up an investigation against the 42-year-old.

Coote last refereed Liverpool during Saturday’s Premier League clash at Anfield between the Reds and Aston Villa, with the home side running out 2-0 winners.

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