PGMOL launch David Coote investigation over alleged X-rated Liverpool and Klopp rant

The Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOL) are investigating after a video was leaked online allegedly showing referee David Coote delivering an x-rated verdict on Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp, football.london understands. In the clip, the Premier League referee appears to slam Klopp and rip into Liverpool.

It is unclear when the video was made or how it came into circulation, and it has not been verified. When asked about his thoughts on the former Reds boss by an unidentified second person, the man in the video who appears to have a striking resemblance to the Premier League referee goes on an X-rated rant.

The man is asked for his views on a Liverpool match where he has just been fourth official, and describes them as “s***”. He then uses an offensive term to describe Klopp, and asked why he felt that way about the German, Coote says the German had “a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown”.

The Mirror reports that Coote vehemently denies inappropriate conduct and has been insistent to referee chiefs PGMOL that the video is not genuine. It is reported that PGMOL have tech experts examining it.

Coote was the Video Assistant Referee for Liverpool's controversial 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Anfield in December 2023. During the Premier League clash, Martin Odegaard appeared to deny Mohamed Salah from storming into the Gunners box by handling the ball inside the 18-yard box.

Chris Kavanagh, the on-field referee, allowed play to continue and the incident was not reviewed by VAR, with Coote deeming that the Arsenal midfielder handled the ball while looking to break his fall – which is not adjudged as an offence.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Klopp questioned why VAR did not intervene. The former Liverpool boss said: "Yes I have seen it. I am pretty sure someone will come to explain it to me why it was not a handball but I don't know how?

"I don't say that the ref can see it because I don't know where he was in that moment. But how can a guy in an office see that and not come to the conclusion that maybe, possibly it could be worth the referee having another look?"

Coote, who has been a Premier League referee since April 2018, officiated Liverpool's 2-0 win over Aston Villa at the weekend.

The Premier League, the FA and Liverpool Football Club have been approached for comment.

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