Referee David Coote sacked after series of controversial videos

The PGMOL have cut ties

Referee David Coote sacked by the PGMOL after a series of controversial videos.

The news comes after the FA has launched an investigation into allegations that suspended Premier League referee David Coote discussed giving a yellow card ahead of a match.

The incident is said to have occurred in October 2019 when Coote booked Leeds player Ezgjan Alioski during a match against West Brom.

This also follows alleged videos of Coote ranting about Liverpool and their then-boss Jurgen Klopp in which he appeared to call him "a German c*nt"

However, Coote has strongly denied the claims in a statement.

This was then followed by a video showing Coote snorting a white powder.

Following the sacking of the referee the PGMOL released a statement which 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."

After the most recent allegations, a spokesperson for Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) told Sky Sports News: "The facts need to be established in light of these very serious allegations.

"We adopt a zero-tolerance approach to any breach of our Integrity Code of Conduct, which is signed by all match officials on an annual basis.

"PGMOL Board is committed to taking the appropriate action should any breach of that Code be proven.

"David Coote remains suspended and subject to an ongoing disciplinary process by PGMOL, separate to the investigation into this matter which will be carried out independently by The FA."

Coote has officiated in the top flight of English football since April 2018, when he took charge of the game against Newcastle and West Brom. At the conclusion of the 2018/19 season he was promoted to Select Group 1 and has gone on to officiate finals such as the Carabao Cup clash between Manchester United and Newcastle.