The recent controversy involving referee David Coote has intensified discussions around referees’ allegiances, with many fans questioning neutrality in officiating. A leaked video allegedly shows Coote making inappropriate comments about Liverpool and former manager Jürgen Klopp, leading to his suspension and an investigation by PGMOL. Additionally, the FA has launched its own inquiry, which could lead to formal charges.
How Referees’ Affiliations Impact Game Assignments
The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), which oversees refereeing assignments, requires officials to disclose their football loyalties to avoid potential conflicts of interest. This rule has led to five Premier League referees being banned from officiating Liverpool’s games due to their geographic or team affiliations. These referees include:
- Darren Bond – From Wigan
- Jarred Gillett – Originally from Australia
- Peter Bankes – Based in Liverpool
- Rob Jones – From the Wirral
- Michael Salisbury – From Higher Penwortham, Lancashire
Although these referees have not officiated Liverpool games, Bond recently managed Liverpool’s Carabao Cup match against Brighton.
Geographic Neutrality and Exceptions
Not all referees are strictly barred from officiating teams within their regions. For instance, Chris Kavanagh and Anthony Taylor, both from Greater Manchester, are allowed to oversee Manchester United and Manchester City games due to their non-league affiliations. Former referee Mike Dean, a Tranmere Rovers fan from Merseyside, also officiated Liverpool and Everton games despite his local ties.
Other Referees and Their Allegiances
Of the 20 primary Premier League referees, many support non-Premier League teams, allowing them to officiate freely. Examples include:
- Stuart Atwell – Luton Town fan
- Michael Oliver – Newcastle United supporter
- Craig Pawson – Sheffield United fan
These affiliations help maintain impartiality, although some, like John Brooks from Leicestershire, avoid officiating games involving his home team, Leicester City.
The Coote incident has reignited debates on refereeing impartiality, with fans scrutinizing officials’ backgrounds to understand their assignments and potential biases in the Premier League.
