Referee David Coote blows a whistle
Premier League referee David Coote has been sacked (Image: PA)
Premier League referee David Coote has been sacked following a "thorough investigation" into his conduct.
The Nottinghamshire-born official was suspended by the PGMOL on November 11 pending a full investigation after a video allegedly showed him making derogatory comments about Liverpool and their former manager Jurgen Klopp.
A further investigation was opened two days later after The Sun newspaper published photos it says were taken during this summer's European Championship's in Germany. The images allegedly appeared to show Coote sniffing a white powder through a rolled-up US bank note.
The referees' body, PGMOL, has now released a statement confirming that Coote has been sacked.
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"Following the conclusion of a thorough investigation into David Coote’s conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect," a statement from the PGMOL on X, formerly known as Twitter read.
"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."
Separate allegations have also been made, which the Football Association has said it is investigating. Coote has denied the allegations and stressed that his integrity has never been in doubt on the pitch.
"These are very serious allegations and we are investigating as a matter of urgency," a statement from the FA, reported by PA, said.
"Whatever issues I may have had in my personal life they have never affected my decision-making on the field," Coote said. "I have always held the integrity of the game in the highest regard, refereeing matches impartially and to the best of my ability."