Brazil and McCoist react as FA probe David Coote after Leeds United messages
Alan Brazil and Ally McCoist were stunned by news of David Coote being investigated by the FA for his actions before an old Leeds United match.
The Sun reported [26 November] that the referee is at the centre of another controversial story, with Coote now appearing to discuss a yellow card before Leeds’ clash with West Brom in 2019.
It is understood that Coote has already denied any wrongdoing, and has not been found guilty, as the FA continue to investigate his awarding of a yellow card to Ezgjan Alioski after messaging about it before the game.
Speaking live via talkSPORT on Wednesday (27 November, 8:35am), Brazil said: “That is strong stuff…”
McCoist added: “It is… But I’ve got to say, it’s being investigated and so it should, but there’s something I’m delighted about in his commitment to saying what he said. I know there’ll be an investigation.
Brazil continued: “Will he be taken off games now or give him a chance? What if it’s nonsense? The Sun doesn’t get everything 100% correct. I’m not taking sides but it’s strong, strong stuff.”
McCoist ended by saying: “I know that, mate. To be fair to The Sun, they’re not saying he’s guilty but he’s in a bet probe. It’ll be an investigation at the very least.”
Leeds United at centre of more David Coote controversy
Of course, fans will not be bothered about the match in question, given it dates all the way back to 2019, but news like this will continue to throw doubt over the referees in this country.
Supporters already have a tough time trusting officials, especially when VAR is involved, and Coote’s recent controversy has done little to help referees’ case in this situation.
Coote is innocent until proven guilty, which is something that should be made very clear, but it is not looking good after yet another negative news story.
Alioski, a much-loved figure in West Yorkshire, was well-known for picking up needless cautions during his time at Elland Road, having been shown 32 yellow cards in 171 matches.
It is certainly a story to keep an eye on, with developments likely to emerge quite quickly, much like his last controversy did.
In other Leeds United news, one loan star could be on his way out of Elland Road.
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