Nottinghamshire Premier League official sacked

Nottinghamshire football official David Coote has been sacked by Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), that body that manages referees and other match officials for English professional football.

Coote was suspended by PGMOL on November 11 pending a full investigation after a video emerged allegedly showing him making disparaging remarks about Liverpool FC and former manager Jurgen Klopp.

A second investigation was opened when, two days later, images surfaced allegedly showing Coote inhaling a white powder or substance through a rolled-up note during the European Championships, held in the summer.

A statement from PGMOL said: “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.”

Coote has a right to appeal the decision to terminate his employment.