London, UK – Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) chief Howard Webb has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding referee David Coote, who is under investigation following a leaked video showing him allegedly making offensive remarks about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
In the video, Coote purportedly uses explicit language against Klopp and disparages Liverpool.
In response, PGMOL swiftly suspended Coote, and UEFA has removed him from officiating duties pending the investigation’s outcome.
Webb briefly commented on the matter during Tuesday’s Match Officials Mic’d Up broadcast, stating, “We became aware of a video circulating on social media. We’ve launched an investigation. I can’t say much more than that.”
Coote, who joined the Premier League in 2018 after eight years in the English Football League, reportedly accepted responsibility but claimed he does not recall the incident.
As PGMOL continues its investigation, Coote’s future in officiating remains uncertain, with potential disciplinary actions looming if the allegations are confirmed.