Coote Under Fire Again: Betting Scandal Accusations
Football Association Probes Embattled EPL Referee over Suspected Gambling Infraction
The English soccer world is once more in a turmoil as Football Association (FA) investigates referee David Coote for a betting breach dating back to a 2019 English Football League (EFL) Championship match.
The FA declared this week that they are scrutinizing Coote, a referee whose reputation has been on the line due to earlier controversies, over alleged betting infractions.
Coote reportedly tipped off a friend about a forthcoming yellow card penalty incident in the Championship encounter between Leeds United and West Bromwich, according to Covers.com. After the match, Coote reportedly sent a text stating: "I hope you backed as discussed."
In the past, Coote's reputation as an EFL referee crumbled due to derogatory comments he made about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp caught on a leaked video. Additionally, another video surfaced showing Coote seemingly snorting a white substance, resulting in the FA suspending him.
Coote Denies Claims
Despite these allegations, Coote, a referee in the English Premier League since 2018, vehemently denies the betting violations, terming them "false and defamatory."
In his statement on Tuesday, Coote maintained that his personal life has never impacted his judgment on the field. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining the integrity of the game, stating, "I have always officiated matches impartially and to the best of my ability."
Although Coote confirmed a conversation had occurred with his friend, he denies any malicious intent.
Probe by PGMOL
The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) is also investigating Coote. Keith Hackett, the former chief and ex-EPL refereeing legend, shed some light on the investigation's process on Thursday.
Hackett informed Football Insider that investigators will be scrutinizing the contested footage of Coote to verify its authenticity and rule out the possibility of it being fabricated.
Future Steps
Once the investigators complete their analysis of the footage, they will interview Coote and any potential witnesses. PGMOL will then furnish sufficient information to Coote's legal representatives, leading to a formal hearing. A panel will be selected for this hearing, according to Hackett.
Hackett acknowledged that despite the negative consequences of the case for the world of refereeing, PGMOL has a responsibility to ensure a proper investigation and due care towards Coote.
In the midst of these allegations, Liverpool supporters unveiled a humorous banner targeting Coote during their 2-0 Champions League victory against Real Madrid at Anfield. The banner featured an image of Coote with a caption mockingly giving Klopp the last word: "VAR. Just gone too far."
[1] The Athletic. (2021, March 17). Seven questions about David Coote's ongoing probe. https://theathletic.com/2777875/2021/03/17/seven-questions-about-david-cootes-ongoing-probe/
[2] BBC Sport. (2021, March 15). David Coote apologises for 'casual racism' comments. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56395251
General-news headlines continue to surround referee David Coote as he faces investigation for betting breaches, amidst denials and a probe by PGMOL. Crime-and-justice issues also involve Coote, with allegations traced back to his controversial past comments and a leaked video showing a questionable substance. Meanwhile, sports discussions have been dominated by football, with Coote's role as a Premier League referee at the center of controversy since 2018.
