Howard Webb Rules Out David Coote's Premier League Comeback Amid FA Suspension Fallout

Former Premier League referee Howard Webb has stated that David Coote, currently suspended by the FA for derogatory remarks about Jurgen Klopp, faces significant obstacles in returning to top-flight officiating, citing a lack of trust and professionalism.

By Chris Posiano

August 16, 2025 at 3:17 AM

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Howard Webb, ex-Premier League referee and former head of referees, has dismissed the possibility of disgraced official David Coote resuming his elite-level career following the FA’s investigation into offensive comments targeting Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.

Coote, who was suspended in September 2024, reportedly made disparaging remarks about Klopp’s appearance and managerial strategies in a leaked video. The footage, shared on social media, drew widespread condemnation and prompted the Football Association to launch disciplinary proceedings against the veteran referee.

Webb emphasized that rebuilding trust after such breaches is nearly impossible. “Once credibility is lost at this level, it’s exceptionally hard to recover,” he said during a recent interview. “The Premier League demands unwavering integrity, and Coote’s actions have fundamentally undermined that.”

Klopp publicly criticized the incident, calling it “deeply disrespectful” and urging governing bodies to uphold accountability. The FA has since confirmed Coote’s suspension but has not disclosed the duration or final decision on his career. Webb, however, suggested that reinstatement is unlikely, noting, “The damage to the refereeing profession’s reputation is severe. This isn’t just about one individual—it affects the entire system.”

Coote’s suspension follows a pattern of controversies, including previous allegations of misconduct that led to an earlier investigation. His contract with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) was not renewed after the initial probe, and the latest scandal has further cemented his fall from grace.

Experts speculate that the FA’s ruling could set a precedent for handling similar cases, reinforcing standards for behavior among match officials. Webb added, “Referees must embody respect and impartiality. Anything less risks eroding confidence in the game.”

As the Premier League continues to address integrity concerns, Coote’s future in officiating remains uncertain, with many advocating for stricter measures to prevent recurrence of such incidents.