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      Five potential new careers for Gary Lineker after quitting MOTD including politics and celebrity chef

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      GARY LINEKER’S decision to quit Match of the Day has sent speculation soaring over his next career move.The BBC’s best-paid presenter, 63, has fronted British football’s most famous highlights show for 25 years.Gary Lineker is looking for something new after MOTDCredit: BBCLineker’s rising interest in cooking included becoming ‘ Chef Gaz’ for fellow presenter Piers MorganCredit: Instagram/piersmorganLineker will step down as Match of the Day presenter at the end of the campaign, although he will front the BBC’s FA Cup coverage next season before hosting at the World Cup and then stepping down.He will take a pay cut and could focus on his interests outside of the BBC, namely his Goalhanger podcasting business which is proving to be a hit.A BBC source told The Sun: “Gary absolutely adores Match of the Day, and has been incredibly happy at the BBC.“He wants to leave on a high – and if England win the World Cup, it doesn’t get much higher.READ MORE TOP FOOTBALL“It’s one of the industry’s worst kept secrets that the new BBC Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski and Gary aren’t exactly close. The former is very keen to make his mark by bringing in new faces, and slashing wage bills.“Gary is incredibly popular with both players and viewers, and news of his departure will send shockwaves around the Corporation. In other words, no-one is immune from change.“Gary will be 65 when he leaves; frankly, he isn’t getting younger and just feels the time is right to focus solely on his mogul interests outside the BBC – namely his Goalhanger podcasting business which is becoming huge Stateside.”However there are plenty of possible options for the England legend to pursue as his wry, relaxed manner has won millions of admirers.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut his willingness to speak out on controversial matters in recent years has divided opinion.All that, however, only makes Lineker even more marketable – in broadcasting and beyond.Gary Lineker reveals how his views on Match of the Day can sometimes get him into trouble The former Barcelona striker has also hinted at new interests, such as cooking.So what’s the £1.35million-a-year broadcaster got next in his pot?  Here we look at four potential options – with offers sure to flood in.POLITICSLineker has insisted he speaks out on “humanitarian issues” rather than making party-political comments. But he frequently irked the previous Conservative Government with several cutting social media posts.And he might appreciate the freedom to have a voice completely free from BBC guidelines for presenters.Lineker has often stirred national debate, most notably in March 2023 with comments on the UK’s asylum policy – a row which even forced a re-think of Beeb rules.He was briefly taken off air at the time, with fellow BBC commentators backing him by refusing to work.The corporation insist Lineker is “free to contribute to projects for third parties, as long as these do not conflict with his BBC commitments”.But with the ex-Tottenham ace determined to use his large following “as a power for good,” is he ready to become a new type of frontman?CELEBRITY CHEFLineker has emerged as a kitchen connoisseur – after telling the Beeb in the spring he “only started cooking about eight years ago”.Lineker could put his feet up, but will he become a TV cook?Credit: Instagram/piersmorgan“Gambas al ajillo” – Spanish garlic shrimp, to you and me – is his speciality.Such is his devotion to learning, he even cooked “three or four meals a day” during the Covid lockdown “not to eat but to practise”.Piers Morgan labelled Lineker “Chef Gaz” after the MOTD star served what the celebrity Arsenal fan called a “quite delicious feast” in front of the cameras.And don’t forget the 48-goal ex-Three Lions’ marksman has a far better footballing pedigree than Britain’s best-known TV chef – Gordon Ramsay!The Scot briefly trialled for his dream club Rangers aged 15 – but a serious knee injury ruined his playing hopes.JOINING A RIVAL BROADCASTERRecruiting Lineker would certainly be a coup for ANY Beeb rival.The Daily Mail even claimed he approached ITV at one stage over the past two years to assess if they were interested in him.But there’s been little talk of a move from fellow broadcasters like Sky Sports or TNT Sports.And Lineker, whose MOTD contract expires at the end of the season, has regularly stated his strong backing for the BBC.HOSTING OWN TALKSHOWLineker appears to love the laidback style of The Rest is Football podcast – alongside MOTD team-mates Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.Lineker clearly enjoys his podcast with Alan Shearer and Micah RichardsCredit: YouTube/ The Rest Is FootballAnd his willingness to dip his oar into many issues means he’d be in demand for all sorts of shows.He also did longer, more in-depth interviews in front of cameras for the Beeb’s “Gary Lineker Meets” series.But the ex-Leicester City hero has so far not expressed much keenness to branch out into a wider talkshow format.REALITY STARTV bosses would lap up the chance to sign top-target Lineker to just about any show.The renowned presenter has previously been tipped to sign-up for BBC flagship show Strictly Come Dancing.When previously asked by judge Shirley Ballas on Sport Relief if he was keen, Lineker said: “Sorry, I’ve got a Saturday job.”But with his Saturday night’s now free for the first time in 25 years, Lineker is finally free to sign up.READ MORE SUN STORIESOr he could be offered to front up another show away from sport.He previously hosted ITV quiz show Sitting on a Fortune from 2021-2023.Lineker could be getting top marks on a new Saturday evening showCredit: BBC More

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      Gary Lineker leaves Match of the Day having made a HUGE change to the show that fans love

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      GARY LINEKER will leave Match of the Day having been responsible for a major change in the format of the show.The England and Leicester hero agreed to call time on his 25-year stint as host of the iconic show at the end of the season.Gary Lineker leaves Match of the Day having made a huge impact on how the show works these daysCredit: BBCLineker has hosted Match of the Day since 1999Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdHe will stop presenting the Premier League highlights on a Saturday night in May but will continue to do live FA Cup matches in 2025-26.Then he plans to quit the BBC entirely after anchoring the coverage of England’s next major tournament at the 2026 World Cup.After Lineker reached new terms a new 18-month contract extension with the Beeb, a source said: “Gary absolutely adores Match of the Day, and has been incredibly happy at the BBC.“He wants to leave on a high – and if England win the World Cup, it doesn’t get much higher.READ MORE ON GARY LINEKER“It’s one of the industry’s worst-kept secrets that the new BBC Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski and Gary aren’t exactly close. The former is very keen to make his mark by bringing in new faces and slashing wage bills.“Negotiations have been ongoing for the past six weeks and finally a deal has been struck that everyone is pleased with. “Gary will be 65 when he leaves; frankly, he isn’t getting younger and just feels the time is right to focus solely on his mogul interests outside the BBC – namely his Goalhanger podcasting business which is becoming huge Stateside.”Lineker, 63, has hosted the much-loved BBC show since 1999 and, for many, is the face of the Premier League on free-to-air TV.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe star hasn’t just put his own spin on the show with his presenting style though, but also with a tweak he helped the BBC make back in 2004.It came after the Beeb had lost the rights to show Premier League highlights to broadcasting rival ITV in 2001.Gary Lineker’s best Match of the Day momentsWhen winning the rights back in 2004, Lineker wanted to ensure the coverage was the best it could be with plans to “stop fans moaning”.The retired Barcelona and Spurs striker requested that the show provided highlights for EVERY Premier League game, something it had not done up until that point.Lineker explained the moment it all changed in an interview with BBC Breakfast back in August, he said: “When it came back, when we got the rights back, I said, ‘Is there any way we could show all the games?’”We found a way of doing it and I thought, ‘Right, we finally won’t get people moaning that they’re never on Match of the Day’.”Since that decision, the show was changed forever with Match of the Day now showing every match in one show so fans up and down the nation can see how their side got on.Although Lineker tried his best to stop fans moaning, the 80-time England international revealed that viewers found something else to complain about instead – the programme’s running order.He added: “But of course then it becomes about where they are on Match of the Day, on the running order! ‘We’re always last’.”SunSport understands that the BBC is now planning a number of shake-ups to revive the format once Lineker leaves.READ MORE SUN STORIESA source added: “The BBC are desperate not to see figures haemorrhage and want to maximise on the show’s current popularity.“They will bring in some exciting new measures over the next few years, whilst not reinventing the wheel.”Lineker earns a pretty penny for his work on Match of the Day More

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      Why has Gary Lineker quit Match of the Day?

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      GARY LINEKER has been the face of iconic football programme Match of the Day since 1999.The former England striker took over as host of the BBC’s Premier League highlights show from Des Lynham.Gary Lineker has stepped down as lead presenter on BBC’s Match of the DayCredit: Getty ImagesBut now The Sun can reveal that the Lineker era is drawing to a close and he is set to QUIT the show at the end of the season. Why has Gary Lineker quit Match of the Day?Gary Lineker has decided to step down from presenting duties of Match of the Day after 25 years in the job.In October, the 63-year-old revealed he was in talks with the BBC over a new contract, but an agreement was never reached, meaning Lineker will leave the corporation at the end of the 2024/25 football season.The former Tottenham and Barcelona legend will completely finish up with the Beeb following the World Cup in 2026. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd last night a BBC source said: “Gary absolutely adores Match of the Day, and has been incredibly happy at the BBC.“But he has been at the helm since 1999, and by the time he leaves, he will have been at the Beeb for 30 years.“He wants to leave on a high – and if England win the World Cup, it doesn’t get much higher.“It’s one of the industry’s worst kept secrets that the new BBC Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski and Gary aren’t exactly close. The former is very keen to make his mark by bringing in new faces, and slashing wage bills.Most read in Football“Negotiations have been ongoing for the past six weeks and finally a deal has been struck that everyone is pleased with.“Gary is incredibly popular with both players and viewers, and news of his departure will send shockwaves around the Corporation. In other words, no-one is immune from change.“Gary will be 65 when he leaves; frankly, he isn’t getting younger. and just feels the time is right to focus solely on his mogul interests outside the BBC – namely his Goalhanger podcasting business which is becoming huge Stateside.“BBC execs, meanwhile, will be giving Match of the Day a reboot to keep it fresh in the wake of such a huge departure.”Lineker was the corporation’s top earner in the 2023/24 financial year, taking home a cool salary of £1.35million.It has not yet been revealed who will replace Lineker as lead presenter of the iconic show, but the BBC are certainly not short of candidates.Mark Chapman is the current host of Match of the Day 2 and is one of the firm favourites for the post.BBC regulars Gabby Logan and Alex Scott will also be amongst the frontrunners for the prestigious role.Lineker’s last Match of the Day show will air on Sunday, May 25, on BBC One – after the final round of fixtures of the 2024/25 Premier League season. More

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      Gary Lineker to QUIT Match Of The Day at end of season – and will LEAVE BBC after fronting 2026 World Cup coverage

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      GARY Lineker is to quit the BBC after the 2026 World Cup, The Sun can reveal.The star will stop presenting Match of the Day at the end of this season.Gary Lineker has a new signing that will keep him on our screensCredit: GettyThe star has presented Match of The Day since 1999Credit: BBC But – as part of an 18-month contract extension – the 63-year-old will stay on to anchor the Corporation’s 2025/26 FA Cup coverage and the next World Cup.Lineker, who will take a substantial pay cut, will have hosted MOTD for 25 years when he steps down from the show.Anchoring the World Cup, which is being held in Canada, Mexico and USA, will mean he bows out on the biggest stage in football.Last night a BBC source said: “Gary absolutely adores Match of the Day, and has been incredibly happy at the BBC.More on Gary Lineker“But he has been at the helm since 1999, and by the time he leaves, he will have been at the Beeb for 30 years.“He wants to leave on a high – and if England win the World Cup, it doesn’t get much higher.“It’s one of the industry’s worst kept secrets that the new BBC Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski and Gary aren’t exactly close. The former is very keen to make his mark by bringing in new faces, and slashing wage bills.“Negotiations have been ongoing for the past six weeks and finally a deal has been struck that everyone is pleased with. Most read in Football“Gary is incredibly popular with both players and viewers, and news of his departure will send shockwaves around the Corporation. In other words, no-one is immune from change.“Gary will be 65 when he leaves; frankly, he isn’t getting younger and just feels the time is right to focus solely on his mogul interests outside the BBC – namely his Goalhanger podcasting business which is becoming huge Stateside.Gary Lineker’s best Match of the Day moments“BBC execs, meanwhile, will be giving Match of the Day a reboot to keep it fresh in the wake of such a huge departure.”The former England striker is understood to be on new terms, which will see his salary reduced significantly. He currently receives £1.35m, making him the highest paid broadcaster at the BBC.The pay cut, in part, is because he will no longer be fronting MOTD – and stand alone payments for the World Cup and FA Cups won’t compensate for this financially.A spokesperson for the BBC declined to comment.Over the past two months there has been frenzied speculation that the star was leaving the BBC’s flagship football programme. Last month a reported leaked email suggested he could be quitting the long-running series mid-season – promoting Gary to joke on air it was his “last game”- before clarifying he meant before the international break. In a recent interview with Esquire Magazine, the ex Spurs star was asked if was stepping down from the Match of the Day hotseat.He replied: “I could do. Whether that will be the case I don’t know.”At some point, I have to slow down somewhere… I’m getting old.”The Sun previously revealed Lineker – who took over from Des Lynam in 1999 – was keen to stay on MOTD and had offered to take a pay cut.While Gary has previously landed himself in hot water over his controversial Tweets, he has since struck a deal with the Director General Tim Davie over what he can and can’t post.Last season he was even taken off air for an episode in the wake of a Tweet comparing the then-government’s asylum policy to Nazi Germany. But his co-stars, Alan Shearer and Ian Wright, refused to go on air without him. The BBC also failed to find a stand-in host to take over in his wake and was forced to air a truncated version of the show.Gary has also come under fire in the wake of launching his hugely successful podcasting empire.Earlier this year five of his Goalhanger productions topped the UK most listened-to podcasts. It has also taken off in the States, making him something of a multi-media mogul.The Sun understands that the BBC is now planning a number of shake-ups to revive the format once Lineker leaves.Thanks for the matchday memories, GaryBy Joshua Jones, Sports ReporterFOR as long as I can remember, Gary Lineker has been the No1 football presenter. Born a few years after his retirement as a player, I have no memories of my own of Lineker on the pitch – for Leicester, Everton, Barcelona, Tottenham or England.Instead, I grew up with him as a regular in our lounge on a Saturday night, hosting Match of the Day. For more than two decades, it has been Lineker, the increasingly silver fox, who provided a sense of continuity and stability, an ever-present regardless of which pundits joined him in the studio and which teams made up the Premier League season after season. An astute understanding of the game, his charming persona and his consistency over the years have made him a firm favourite. It is telling that MOTD continues to be such a success and must-watch viewing for so many in an era when all the goals and incidents from Premier League matches are available well before 10.30pm on a Saturday night. He always seemed to hit the right note, too – whether he was required to make a sombre, serious announcement live on air or signing off the show with one of his trademark quips.In recent years, he has not been afraid to speak his mind more and more, thanks in part to his platform as the top-paid BBC presenter and his huge profile outside of the MOTD studio – namely on social media and on his own podcast.His long run in the Match of the Day hot seat means, for many football fans of my era, our whole football journey has been accompanied by Lineker – from the heights of Premier League title wins and FA Cup upsets to the depths of relegation and, of course, heartbreak with England.Because while the bread and butter Match of the Day is the Saturday night highlights, Lineker has also been the main man for the Three Lions’ major tournaments, having to console millions of BBC viewers after gut-wrenching defeats to Croatia, Italy, France and Spain in recent years while he himself, as big a football fan as any of us, mourned another missed opportunity.There is one Lineker moment that stands out above the rest, though. Of course, Lineker Road in my hometown of Leicester beside the old Filbert Street stadium got its name thanks to his goalscoring exploits for his beloved Foxes.But he deserved a far greater honour for what he did on August 13, 2016, famously presenting MOTD in his (very baggy!) pants, coming good on a promise he vowed should Leicester win the title. And somehow he kept a straight face through it all. Ironically, the biggest compliment many people can pay Lineker as MOTD host is that they didn’t know he was a footballer – he is not just an ex-pro who has made a smooth transition from the stadium to the studio but is instead a brilliant TV presenter in his own right, regardless of his status in football.That is proven by the very fact Lineker succeeded the iconic Des Lynam in 1999 as MOTD host so successfully.It will require another fine presenter and plenty of time to follow in his footsteps as a new era begins.They may well succeed, too, but no one will ever really replace Lineker – what he means to so many football fans and the role he plays in countless memories over the last 25 years. Thank you for everything, Gary. A source added: “The BBC are desperate not to see figures haemorrhage and want to maximise on the show’s current popularity.“They will bring in some exciting new measures over the next few years, whilst not reinventing the wheel.”READ MORE SUN STORIESNews of his departure comes as the BBC recently celebrated 60 years of Match of the Day.However the show was rocked earlier this year after pundit Jermaine Jenas was quietly axed after it emerged he had been texting two younger female members of staff on The One Show.Gary is the current presenter of Match of the DayCredit: Getty Images – GettyWho could replace Gary Lineker as MOTD host?GARY LINEKER dropped the shock news that he is QUITTING Match of the Day.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.But as part of a huge shake-up, the BBC is considering rotating the presenters on a weekly basis.So with Lineker vacating the chair, new names will step into his giant boots. But who could they be?MARK CHAPMANChapman, 51, is the obvious early favourite to follow on from Lineker as MOTD presenter.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the presenting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.ALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.The former right-back, 40, is used to presenting the Saturday night show as well as live match coverage – plus ticks the box as a former England international.GABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan, 51, is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.She has done most gigs since joining the BBC in 2007, including Olympics, Sports Personality of the Year and Final Score.MICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is exuberant former Man City defender Richards.The departing host told his close pal, 36, on their Stick to Football podcast: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”JASON MOHAMMADMohammad could earn the “promotion” from Final Score to Match of the Day.The 51-year-old Welshman – who took over from Logan in 2013 – is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the afternoon slot.JEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he? While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.He would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise – but at nearly 70 and currently with talkSPORT, the Hartlepool fan would not be a cheap or long-term appointment. More

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      ‘Something’s not right’ – Ex-Premier League referee shocked by David Coote video and fears his career is over

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      MARK HALSEY fears David Coote could lose his job over his alleged comments about Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp.The Premier League referee has been suspended pending an investigation.Mark Halsey believes David Coote is at risk of losing his jobCredit: GettyThe Prem ref appeared to make derogatory comments about Liverpool and KloppCredit: XCoote, 42, accepted he was filmed calling Liverpool a “s*** club” and extraordinarily dropped the C-bomb to describe ex-Reds boss Klop but says he cannot recall the incident.Former Prem ref Halsey, who spoke to SunSport before Coote admitted it was him in the video, is concerned it could lead to Coote losing his career.Halsey told SunSport: “If it is authentic then he’s got questions to answer, hasn’t he? But when I saw that, I have to say to myself, is that really David Coote? Has he really said that? To be fair, I was shocked when that video circulated on social media.”Can he come back and referee from this? I have my doubts.READ MORE ON COOTE”And I’m shocked that whoever’s posted this video needs sorting big time, because if that was done privately between two of them, then something’s not right, is it? Something’s not right at all. “I’m hoping it’s not authentic for David’s sake. If it is, then he will need all the support from the PGMOL going forward regarding this matter.”Shocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”Coote refereed Liverpool’s most recent match against Aston Villa on Saturday.Halsey called for him to be given a second chance, with the Prem to decide Coote’s long-term future.Most read in FootballPremier League referee David Coote SUSPENDED as video appears to show him calling Klopp a ‘c***’ in anti-Liverpool rantHe continued: “I hope it’s not [authentic] because you don’t want to see anybody lose their career. Remember, it’s his full-time job. He’s got a family, he’s got a house, he’s got a mortgage.”It leaves him in a precarious position, doesn’t it? Because people will be saying, how can they trust him to go out and referee in the Premier League? “Everybody makes mistakes. Everybody deserves a second chance.” More

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      Prem ref David Coote facing sack as he admits vid of him calling Klopp a ‘c***’ is real – but claims he can’t recall it

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      DAVID COOTE “cannot recall” abusing Jurgen Klopp in the video rant that seems certain to end his refereeing career.But the Nottinghamshire whistler is NOT denying the accuracy of the footage which has gone viral on social media.David Coote is facing the sack as a Premier League refereeCredit: ReutersHe admitted the viral video of him slamming Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool is of himCredit: XThe video, which appears to be at least two years old, in which Coote brands Klopp a “c***” and Liverpool as “s**t”, forced PGMOL chiefs into urgent action.Within a couple of hours of it first being circulated publicly, it was announced the 42-year-old Coote had been “suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation”.It was then claimed the official was “vehemently doubting” the legitimacy of the recording, with suggestions that it was potentially an AI-generated “deep fake”.But SunSport has been told that Coote has admitted to other officials that the video is of him.READ MORE ON PREMIER LEAGUEHe is now understood to not be denying the accuracy of the comments although he has admitted to refs’ chief Howard Webb that he cannot recall all the contents.In the video circulated online, Coote said: “Liverpool were s*** . Klopp is an absolute c***. “Aside from having a right pop at me when I was refereeing them against Burnley in lockdown, he accused me of lying and then had a right f***ing pop of me.”I have no interest in speaking to someone who is f***ing arrogant. So I do my best not to speak to him. James Milner is all right, I get on with him.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”You can see me there with a ‘mask’ on. But, my god, German c***, f*** me.”In a second video, the man added: “Just to be clear, that f***ing last video cannot go anywhere, seriously.”Ex-Prem ref fears for David Coote’s career after his x-rated Klopp video suspensionThe debacle seems almost certain to end with Coote being sacked as his comments about Liverpool and Klopp will be viewed as evidence that he had an axe to grind with the Anfield club.Coote, a Prem ref since 2018, has been involved in a number of controversies involving Liverpool and their title rivals as both a referee and VAR over recent seasons.That includes a Marcus Rashford goal way back in 2019 which saw Divock Origi seemingly fouled in the build-up – but VAR Coote did not intervene. He was also at Stockley Park when Jordan Pickford crunched Virgil van Dijk, rupturing the Liverpool defender’s ACL – but again Coote did not step in as the Reds did not even get a penalty.And he was once again the VAR when he denied Klopp’s side a penalty last season despite a clear handball from Martin Odegaard at Anfield. Shocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”His last game was ironically at Anfield on Saturday, when he angered both Liverpool and Aston Villa with his decisions as Arne Slot’s side won 2-0 to move five points clear at the top of the Prem.Coote appeared to wave play on and not acknowledge a blatant “last man” red card foul by Leon Bailey on Mo Salah, although with Darwin Nunes picking up the loose ball and scoring, there could be no VAR intervention.But Coote also left Villa boss Unai Emery seething as the visitors saw two spot-kick claims rejected.READ MORE SUN STORIESA PGMOL statement on Monday said: “David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation.”PGMOL will be making no further comment until that process is complete.”Coote insists he does not remember making the comments about KloppCredit: ReutersCoote was the VAR when Martin Odegaard escaped a blatant handball at AnfieldCredit: BBCHe was also in the booth and ignored a trip on Divock Origi before a Marcus Rashford goal in 2019Credit: AFP or licensorsVAR Coote did not intervene as Jordan Pickford injured Virgil van DijkCredit: AFPThe PGMOL confirmed the high-profile whistler had been suspendedCredit: Getty More

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      Three controversial David Coote decisions that angered Liverpool fans as referee suspended for alleged Klopp ‘c***’ rant

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      SUSPENDED David Coote sees himself in the eye of a storm after THREE contentious decisions against Liverpool have resurfaced.This comes as Coote was suspended after a shocking viral video allegedly showed him refer to former boss Jurgen Klopp as a “c***”.Fans have called out some contentious incidents involving David CooteCredit: GettyA leaked video appearing to show Coote calling Liverpool ‘s***’ and Jurgen Klopp a ‘c***’ is being investigated by PGMOLCredit: XThe astonishing clips shows an alleged Coote also refer to Liverpool as a “s*** club” alongside one other man.The 42-year-old refereed Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Aston Villa on Saturday in which he was at the centre of a few controversial decisions.He appeared to deem Leon Bailey’s last-man challenge on Mo Salah not to be a foul prior to Darwin Nunez scoring, but also denied Villa a penalty despite Conor Bradley’s tug Pau Torres’ shirt in the box.The PGMOL are investigating the video with the referee now facing the sack after being suspended from officiating duties.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSCoote “cannot recall” abusing Klopp in the video rant that seems certain to end his refereeing career.But the Nottinghamshire official is NOT denying the accuracy of the footage which has gone viral on social media.He is understood to not be denying the accuracy of the comments although he has admitted to refs’ chief Howard Webb that he cannot recall all the contents.The debacle seems almost certain to end with Coote being sacked.Most read in FootballThe X-rated scathing attack on Liverpool and Klopp has sparked fans to investigate several contentious historic incidents involving Coote’s officiating in matches.Although he cannot be blamed for these decisions, Coote has found himself at the wrong end of some damaging accusations.PICKFORD’S FOUL ON VIRGIL VAN DIJKCoote was on VAR on the day that Jordan Pickford inflicted a horror tackle on Virgil van Dijk in the penalty box in October 17 2020.The incident saw world class defender Van Dijk undergo surgery to fix his ruptured ACL and miss the rest of the season.Not only were Liverpool denied a penalty, but Pickford avoided any type of punishment as the Toffee’s earned a 2-2 draw at Goodison.On-field ref Michael Oliver later admitted that he should have shown Pickford a straight red and the PGMOL held a mid-season review.However fans were hacked off with Coote, who was on VAR, as he denied the penalty on the basis that Van Dijk was in an offside position.But Oliver could have still dismissed the England goalkeeper for serious foul play or violent conduct.Everton keeper Jordan Pickford avoided punishment after his horror tackle on Virgil van Dijk in 2020Credit: AFPODEGAARD’S HANDBALLCoote was the VAR official when Martin Odegaard handled the ball inside David Raya’s penalty box last December.Mohamed Salah had attempted to flick the ball round Odegaard when the ball hit the Arsenal captain’s arm as he was falling.Referee Chris Kavanagh waved on and Coote confirmed his decision not to give a penalty after a VAR review.Liverpool were denied a penalty last season when Martin Odegaard handled the ball inside the boxIn-game audio revealed Coote saying: “For me, Lee, I’m back with live. So, he’s falling down, he’s moving his arms in towards him, so it’s check complete for me.”After the game ended at 1-1, head ref Howard Webb said: “The VAR looked at it and thought it was a case of Odegaard trying to make himself smaller by bringing the arm back towards the body.”But Webb later admitted that he believed Liverpool should have been awarded the spot-kick.ORIGI FOULED BEFORE MAN UTD GOAL Liverpool fans have gone as far back as 2019 to dig out a problem they had with Marcus Rashford’s opening goal five years ago.The oldest call that has riled up some supporters came during the Reds’ Premier League-winning 2019/20 season.Liverpool felt they should have received a free kick for a foul by Victor Lindelof on Divock Origi in the build up to Rashford’s opener at Old Trafford.READ MORE SUN STORIESKlopp’s side were calling for the goal to be ruled out, but ref Martin Atkinson was close to the incident and Coote backed his decision not to blow for a foul.Coote decided that it wasn’t a clear and obvious error to not award the foul leaving Klopp furious before Adam Lallana equalised in the 85th minute.Klopp was furious that VAR didn’t rule out United’s goalCredit: AFP or licensorsShocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.” More

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      Raphinha gifts Yamal £10,000 solid gold iPhone to congratulate his Ballon D’or Kopa trophy win

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      LAMINE Yamal’s Barcelona teammate Raphinha surprised him with a £10,000 solid gold iPhone to celebrate his Ballon D’or Koba trophy win.Yamal was awarded the Koba at the ceremony in Paris last month.Raphinha surprised Yamal with a pricey presentHe handed him a £10,000 solid gold iPhone from I Design GoldInsiders said Raphinha was inspired by Lionel Messi and Kevin De Bruyne – who previously bought gifts for their teammates from I Design Gold.A source said: “Raphinha presented the solid gold iPhone to Yamal when they were together and he was delighted.“It was a mark of their friendship both off and on the field and was given to him after the Ballon D’Or ceremony where he got the Koba trophy.“Raphinha had the phone made especially for Yamal by I Design Gold and it was tailored to all of his preferences and has his name engraved on the back.”READ MORE ON LAMINE YAMALA spokesperson for I Design Gold said: “Yamal and Raphinha have formed a very special partnership on the field with Robert Lewandowski; off the pitch, they have become great friends.“We were honoured to deliver this amazing young player our famous gold iPhone.“As a company, we always look after individuals and create exclusive pieces that reflect their personalities.“Next year, we’re excited to be expanding further into the Middle East and USA retail markets, bringing our luxury designs to even more clients who appreciate innovation and personalisation.”Most read in FootballI Design Gold is a pioneering luxury brand that has become synonymous with bespoke tech accessories, celebrated worldwide for crafting exclusive, high-end gadgets that combine artistry, customisation, and premium materials. Known especially for their gold and platinum devices, the company has become the go-to brand for elite athletes, celebrities, and global tastemakers who seek more than functionality from their phone—they seek a statement piece that aligns with their personal style.As luxury tech becomes more popular among football’s elite, players like Messi, De Bruyne, and now Raphinha and Yamal, have all called upon I Design Gold for the gifts.Last year, Messi spent £175,000 on 35 of the gold iPhones for his Argentine World Cup winning team and staff.A source said: “Lionel wanted to do something special and blingy to celebrate his proudest moment.”He won the Kopa trophy at the Ballon D’Or last monthCredit: APRaphinha and Yamal have formed a tight bond on and off the pitchCredit: Rex More