January 28th 2025.
David Coote, a former Premier League referee, recently issued an apology to Jurgen Klopp, the former manager of Liverpool, after a video of his explicit rant towards Klopp was leaked online. Coote had been sacked by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in December following an investigation into his behavior.
In the leaked videos, Coote can be seen making derogatory comments about Liverpool and Klopp, as well as appearing to use drugs. In his first public statement since his dismissal, Coote explained that he had turned to drugs as a way to cope with the pressure and abuse he faced as a referee, as well as struggles with his sexuality.
However, Coote also acknowledged that there was no excuse for the leaked video, in which he called Liverpool "s**t" and referred to Klopp as an "absolute c**t." He admitted that he was not sober when the video was filmed and apologized for any offense caused.
"I recognize that my words fell well short of the standards expected of a top-level referee," Coote told The Sun. "I deeply regret saying what I said."
Coote also revealed that the video had been taken over four years ago and he had forgotten about its existence until it resurfaced on social media. He expressed his devastation at the video's release and stated that his comments were not reflective of his true views towards those involved or his general outlook on things.
In addition to addressing the leaked video, Coote also denied allegations that he had purposely booked a player after discussing it with a friend before a match. He stated that there was no agreement made beforehand and that he simply did his job. Coote, who is still under investigation for the incident, expressed his disappointment at the accusations, which he believes tarnish the integrity of the game.
Coote also opened up about the horrific abuse he has faced during his career, which has taken a toll on his emotional well-being. "I've received death threats during my career," he revealed. "I've needed a special response tag on my home address to speak to the police in case of an emergency." He also shared receiving messages from angry fans wishing harm upon him and his family.
"There is a certain level of abuse that comes with being a referee, but some of it crosses a line and is completely unacceptable," Coote stated. "I have always done my best on the pitch, both as a referee and as a human being." He expressed his disappointment that his career ended in such a way, but remains grateful for the experiences he had and the opportunities he was given.
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