FA investigate David Coote in new Leeds United betting probe
David Coote is in the centre of an FA probe after discussing a booking before a Leeds United clash against West Brom, according to The Sun.
The newspaper reported on 27 November that the 42-year-old messaged with a friend before the game in October 2019, who told Coote to book Ezgjan Alioski.
The match official then booked the defender during the game after a foul before messaging to say: “I hope you backed as discussed,” which he claims was only banter.
There is no suggestion that the referee or friend made any financial gains from this and Coote has denied any wrongdoing but the FA are investigating the “very serious allegations as a matter of urgency”.
FA investigating David Coote in Leeds United v West Brom
It is interesting that the referee appears to have discussed this before the game at Elland Road, speaking about the Macedonia international potentially being booked.
The versatile full-back did pick up a booking during the game and ironically scored the winner to secure three points for the Whites.
This has just added to the pile-on surrounding Coote which has seen him be investigated by the FA already for comments made about Jurgen Klopp.
These betting allegations will only add more fuel to the fire, despite football experts admitting the booking was justified for a poor challenge.
Marcelo Bielsa’s side at the time came away with a win with Allioski scoring the winner and as a result, this alleged betting scandal hasn’t affected the club negatively.
This probe is likely to last a while given all the allegations aimed at the suspended Premier League official, with Leeds now potentially playing a role too.
In other Leeds United news, Daniel Farke has been told what he needs to do during the January transfer window.
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