David Coote has put integrity of officials at stake – if guilty he should be severely punished

As the video of David Coote making X-rated remarks towards Liverpool and Jürgen Klopp exploded on to social media and news outlets across the country, you could forgive Howard Webb for letting out an expletive of his own in frustration.

Since taking over as the head of Professional Game Match Officials Ltd at the beginning of last season Webb has had to tackle various controversies and issues, which has derailed his attempt to clean up the mess left by the previous administration. But none will be bigger than what has just fallen upon him because Coote’s comments put the integrity of match officials at stake.

Questions remain about whether PGMOL was aware of this video prior to it surfacing given it is believed to have been recorded four years ago and, if it was not, why not?

As a referee you have to remain professional at all times and keep your personal opinions to yourself, even when out socialising with friends and colleagues. Especially in today’s age of social media.

The job will mean your opinion is scrutinised regularly and with football being a passionate sport, it is only natural that thousands will disagree with you on occasions, and that includes managers who are under pressure to deliver results.

It is common knowledge that while he was manager of Liverpool, Klopp was animated on the touchline and would regularly be seen hurling heated words towards officials.

However, it is imperative that every referee enters every game with a clean slate and does not let previous experiences influence decision-making.

Under Webb’s leadership the PGMOL has looked chaotic from an outside perspective but it has acted decisively in suspending Coote and launching a full investigation.

During my years as the head of the PGMOL I had to suspend two referees, albeit for different reasons, and the investigation process is built on professionalism and I am certain it will arrive at the right decision.

Yet Coote’s comments made yesterday a sad day for officials and if the Football Association and PGMOL find him guilty they will have no choice but to hand him the most severe of punishments, because if they do not, the footballing world’s faith in officiating will be dealt a major blow.