Referee David Coote has been fired by PGMOL following a thorough investigation into his recent conduct concerning Liverpool and former head coach Jurgen Klopp, which saw him breach his contract.

A statement released by PGMOL on Monday read: "Following the conclusion of a thorough investigation into David Coote’s conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect. 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."

The former PGMOL official was suspended in November after an old video surfaced on social media, shortly after Coote had refereed Liverpool's 2-0 win against Aston Villa. In the video, Coote was seen referring to Klopp as a "German c---" after clashing with the head coach in the past.

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Another video soon went viral on social media, showing Coote allegedly snorting a white powder. Coote was then at the center of a betting scandal as The Football Association investigated him allegedly discussing a yellow card before a Championship game between Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion took place in October 2019.

Coote booked Leeds player Ezgjan Alioski during that match, but has refused any allegations. "I strongly refute these false and defamatory allegations. Whatever issues I may have had in my personal life they have never affected my decision-making on the field," Coote said previously.

"I have always held the integrity of the game in the highest regard, refereeing matches impartially and to the best of my ability." While Coote responded to the betting probe, he has not commented on the Klopp or alleged white powder videos.

Although PGMOL has taken the decision to cut ties with Coote on an employment basis, they remain concerned for his welfare and committed to supporting him. The video of Coote became a national story in the UK, with most high-profile figures in sport discussing his conduct.

"David's welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period," PGMOL said in its last statement before announcing Coote's contract was terminated. After being initially suspended by PGMOL, UEFA then launched its own investigation.

Coote was dropped from Nations League duty following the controversy, and UEFA wrote in a statement: "A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to evaluate a potential violation of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations by the referee, Mr. David Coote. Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course."