David Coote in FA probe after what he said about old West Brom match v Leeds
David Coote is facing an FA probe after reportedly discussing a booking prior to a West Brom fixture against Leeds United five years ago, according to The Sun.
In a Championship game between the two sides [1 October, 2019], Leeds' Ezgjan Alioski was booked for a tackle on Darnell Furlong, and also scored the only goal in a 1-0 win for the Whites.
The newspaper is reporting [26 November] that Coote is now being investigated after a friend told him to book Alioski before the game.
The 42-year-old followed up by sending a message that read: "I hope you backed as discussed", which Coote labelled as banter.
Coote has denied any wrongdoing and there is no suggestion the referee or the friend made any financial gain. The FA said it is investigating the allegations with a "matter of urgency".
David Coote faces FA probe in Leeds United v West Brom
It has been an uncomfortable period for Coote, who is already suspended after a video emerged of him making comments about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
According to the Sun's report, football experts agreed the tackle was worthy of a yellow card and ultimately the Baggies did go on to lose the game and they had five of their own players booked in the fixture.
It will hopefully not distract too much from the task at hand, which is West Brom's attempt to cement themselves as promotion contenders in the Championship.
A goalless draw with fellow promotion hopefuls Sunderland on Tuesday left Carlos Corberan's side outside of the top six on goal difference and they will hope to return to winning ways with their trip to Preston on Saturday (30 November).
In other West Brom news, Torbjorn Heggem footage leaves fans amazed.