The Football Association has launched an investigation into allegations that Premier League referee David Coote discussed issuing a yellow card with a Leeds United fan before officiating a Championship match in 2019.
Coote, who denies the claims, remains suspended while multiple inquiries into his conduct continue.
Allegations of Pre-Match Discussions
The Sun reported that Coote allegedly exchanged messages with a fan before and after a Leeds United match against West Brom in October 2019. In the game, Leeds’ Gjanni Alioski was booked in the 18th minute for a foul on Darnell Furlong during a 1-0 victory. While the booking was deemed correct, the investigation focuses on alleged communications between Coote and the fan.
According to the report, Coote’s messages included responses such as:
“Haha don’t know what you mean,” and later, “What a day yesterday. I hope you backed as discussed.”
The claims do not suggest Coote received any financial gain, but the exchange raises serious concerns about integrity.
Coote Denies Allegations
Coote has strongly denied the allegations, calling them “false and defamatory.” In a statement, he said:
“Whatever issues I may have had in my personal life, they have never affected my decision-making on the field. I have always held the integrity of the game in the highest regard, refereeing matches impartially and to the best of my ability.”
Broader Context: Multiple Investigations
The new allegations come as Coote faces investigations by the FA, Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), and UEFA. Earlier this month, he was suspended after a video emerged appearing to show him making disparaging remarks about Jurgen Klopp. Another report alleged Coote was filmed during Euro 2024 in a compromising situation involving a white powder.
Both PGMOL and UEFA are conducting their own investigations, and Coote’s future as a match official remains uncertain. PGMOL reaffirmed its commitment to upholding integrity:
“We adopt a zero-tolerance approach to any breach of our integrity code of conduct… David Coote remains suspended and subject to an ongoing disciplinary process.”
Writer’s View
These allegations, if proven, could significantly damage the credibility of English football’s officiating standards. While Coote’s denial deserves consideration, the sheer nature of the claims demands thorough investigation. The FA must act decisively to restore public confidence, ensuring referees are held to the highest standards of integrity. This case also highlights the need for continued reforms to safeguard the impartiality of match officials.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
