Premier League referee David Coote has been suspended by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) following allegations of inappropriate comments about Liverpool and former manager Jürgen Klopp.

The suspension comes after a video surfaced on social media allegedly showing Coote making derogatory remarks following Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Aston Villa. PGMOL has launched a thorough investigation into the matter, with Coote removed from officiating duties until further notice.

In an official statement, PGMOL confirmed: "We have suspended David Coote with immediate effect while a full investigation is conducted. No further comment will be made at this time."

The controversy appears to reference a July 2020 match between Liverpool and Burnley, where Klopp criticized Coote's officiating style. During that match, Klopp expressed concerns about the referee's leniency toward physical play, stating, "The referee let lots of challenges go, which made it dangerous in the box."

The suspension highlights crucial questions about referee impartiality in the Premier League. Coote, who is registered as a Notts County supporter, is already restricted from officiating matches involving County or Nottingham Forest due to potential conflicts of interest.

The investigation remains ongoing, with PGMOL emphasizing their commitment to maintaining the integrity of Premier League officiating. The authenticity of the video is still under verification as part of the investigation process.

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