The Football Association (FA) has launched an investigation into Premier League referee David Coote following allegations that he discussed booking a player for a yellow card before a match. The claims relate to a Championship game between Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion back in October 2019.
According to reports, Coote exchanged text messages with a friend in which it was suggested that Leeds player Ezgjan Alioski would be booked during the match. In the 18th minute of the game, Coote did indeed show Alioski a yellow card for a tackle on West Brom’s Darnell Furlong. The following day, Coote reportedly messaged his friend saying, “What a day yesterday. I hope you backed as discussed.”
The FA has taken the allegations seriously and confirmed that they are investigating the matter. They stated, “These are very serious allegations, and we are investigating as a matter of urgency.”
However, Coote has denied any wrongdoing. He has stated that there was no financial gain involved and that the decision to issue the yellow card was the correct one based on the nature of the challenge. Coote maintains that the conversation with his friend was simply “banter” and not an attempt to influence the match.
The messages between Coote and his friend show the referee joking about the match and discussing betting. The friend had apparently mentioned placing a bet on Alioski receiving a yellow card, to which Coote responded in a lighthearted manner.
Despite the controversy, Coote insists that his personal life has never affected his refereeing decisions, stressing that he has always maintained the integrity of the game.
This investigation adds to the scrutiny surrounding Coote, who has faced other issues in recent weeks, including a suspension over an explicit rant about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. Additionally, a video surfaced showing Coote using a white powder during Euro 2024.
The FA’s investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge.