The English Football Association (FA) has launched an investigation into allegations that referee David Coote discussed issuing a yellow card to a player prior to a match.
The claims, which date back to a 2019 Championship game between Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion, have been strongly denied by Coote.
The controversy began when The Sun reported on Tuesday that David Coote allegedly had a conversation with a friend the day before the match about booking then-Leeds United player Ezgjan Alioski. The friend reportedly suggested this in jest, so he could place a bet on it. During the game, Coote issued a yellow card to Alioski and later messaged his friend, saying, “I hope you backed as discussed.”
David Coote has denied the allegations against him, calling them false and defamatory. He stated, “While I may have faced personal challenges, they have never influenced my decisions on the field. I have always prioritized the integrity of the game, ensuring I referee matches fairly and to the best of my ability.”
Serious Allegations Prompt Urgent FA Investigation
The FA has labeled the accusations against David Coote as “very serious” and is investigating the matter urgently. A spokesperson stated, “These are grave allegations, and we are committed to uncovering the truth as quickly as possible.”
Meanwhile, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), the organization overseeing referees in English football, emphasized its zero-tolerance stance on breaches of integrity. “We require all match officials to adhere strictly to our Integrity Code of Conduct, which is reviewed and signed annually. Should any breach of this code be proven, appropriate action will be taken,” a PGMOL representative said.
Additional Investigations Against David Coote
This latest incident is not the only controversy surrounding David Coote. He is currently being investigated by the FA, PGMOL, and UEFA for different allegations. UEFA has suspended Coote following a video that surfaced earlier this month, allegedly showing him making derogatory comments about Liverpool Football Club and their former manager, Jürgen Klopp.
PGMOL has addressed the allegations by stating: “David Coote remains suspended and is currently undergoing a separate disciplinary process. This process is independent of the FA’s ongoing investigation into the matter. We will not make further comments until these investigations are complete.”
Club and Governing Body Reactions
Leeds United, the club linked to the 2019 allegations, has not issued an official comment. The controversy has fueled widespread debate among fans and pundits, raising questions about accountability and transparency within the refereeing community.
David Coote’s case underscores the critical importance of integrity in football officiating. The FA’s swift response highlights the severity of the situation and its potential implications for the sport. With investigations underway, all eyes are on the governing bodies to ensure a fair and thorough examination of the claims.
