Who is David Coote? Premier League referee with famous dad at centre of PGMOL probe

Though the November international break has now begun, a major Premier League talking point has emerged surrounding referee David Coote. On Monday, a video on social media began circulating of a man, allegedly Coote, issuing an X-rated rant on both Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp.

In the video, Coote is seen to be asked for his views on a Liverpool match where he has just been fourth official, and describes them as "s***". He then allegdly uses an offensive term to describe Klopp, and asked why he felt that way, Coote says the German had "a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown" and had accused him of lying.

It is unclear when the video was made or how it came into circulation, and it has not been verified by the PA news agency. The Mirror has reported that Coote 'is understood' to have admitted the viral video in which he appears is genuine.

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The PGMOL swiftly released a statement in response with Coote having taken charge of Liverpool's 2-0 win over Aston Villa on Saturday. "David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation," it read. "PGMOL will be making no further comment until that process is complete."

Given the nature of the incident, some hugely controversial moments involving Coote from past games have come to light including decisions that impacted Liverpool. With the 42-year-old now firmly in the spotlight, football.london has pulled together all there is to know about the ref.

Early referee career

Having spent time officiating in the Notts Alliance League, Northern Premier League and Conference North, Coote was promoted to the list of football league referees in 2010. After eight years in the lower divisions, he made his Premier League debut as a ref for West Brom's win over Newcastle. He was later promoted Select Group 1.

Coote has since overseen 108 games of top-flight football with only four of those coming this season. In recent weeks he was on VAR for Manchester United's clash at home to Brentford, before taking charge of West Ham's win over Man United.

Family life

Coote is the son of namesake David Coote, who spent nearly 30 years playing cricket with spells at Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club and Collingham.

Coote Jnr very nearly followed in his fathers' foot steps having captained Nottinghamshire at youth level, before embarking on his refereeing career.n Odegaard went unpunished for handball with Coote again at Stockley Park where he did not recommend an on-field review.