David Coote could face FA charge for specific Jurgen Klopp comment in X-rated footage

Premier League referee David Coote is at the centre of a PGMOL probe after footage of him allegedly hurling insults at Liverpool and former boss Jurgen Klopp went viral on social media this week

David Coote could face heavy sanctions by the FA after the governing body opened up their own investigation into the leaked video where the under-fire referee allegedly called Jurgen Klopp a "German c*** .

The Premier League official finds himself at the centre of a PGMOL investigation after a foul-mouthed video went viral on social media. Coote was allegedly filmed calling ex-Liverpool boss Klopp an “absolute c***”, and also referenced his nationality when he dropped another C-bomb, while he also slammed Liverpool as “s***” during a game that he had overseen.

The PGMOL have already suspended the 42-year-old pending an investigation, while Coote himself has claimed responsibility, despite not recalling the incident in question. And while he could face sanctions from his refereeing bosses, Coote could also face FA consequences.

According to The Times, the Football Association have launched their own investigation. It is suggested that Coote could be accused of an “aggravated breach” of rules, which includes a reference “whether express or implied, to race and/or colour and/or ethnic origin and/or nationality”.

A FA Spokesperson said: “We are aware of the matter, and we are investigating.” While the video is understood to have been filmed a few years ago and was never meant for publication, that would not stop the FA from taking action.

While Coote remains under investigation, one of his former colleagues has spoken out. Ex-Premier League referee Peter Walton has claimed that the video is out of character.

Speaking to The Times, the former official said: "There are some Premier League referees I consider more loose-lipped, and more laddish in their behaviour away from the public spotlight. David is not one of them. I would have described him as captain sensible, maybe a bit highly-strung at times, and not one of the lads.

"Unlike some referees, you rarely see him laughing and joking with players during matches — he is generally very straight-laced. I look at the video and wonder if part of the problem is that he is trying to be someone he is not."

Ironically, Coote’s most recent game in the Premier League involved Liverpool. He oversaw the Reds’ 2-0 victory against Aston Villa on Saturday.

And he was slammed by John Aldrige for failing to send off Leon Bailey during the game. Writing for the Liverpool Echo, he said: “Even before the footage emerged, there were question marks against some of Coote’s decision-making in Liverpool’s win over Aston Villa on Saturday.

“It’s scary that he seems to not think it was a foul from Bailey on Salah on Saturday. Surely it should be a sending off? He’s the last man.”

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