Commentator Richard Keys defends David Coote after scandalous videos
Former Sky Sports commentator Richard Keys has spoken out in support of suspended referee David Coote, insisting that he should be given the chance to resume his career. Keys shared his views in a blog post, as reported by Daily Mail.
Keys believes that after the controversy involving Liverpool and manager Jürgen Klopp, the disgraced referee may no longer be able to officiate in the Premier League, but that doesn't mean he should be banned from officiating in the EFL (English Football League).
Drawing a parallel to his own experience, Keys recalled when he and his colleague Andy Gray were fired from Sky Sports in 2011 for making sexist remarks about a female referee. Despite the backlash, Keys managed to rebuild his commentary career on other networks.
“If we genuinely believe in "well being and mental health" we have no choice but to sanction Coote and then let him get on with his life. Anything else might lead to a devastating outcome,” Keys argued.
Keys also suggested that the recent video of Coote allegedly using a powdered substance should prompt the introduction of random drug testing for referees to maintain the integrity of the sport.
Richard Keys himself has been no stranger to controversy. Last year, he made headlines when he left his wife, who was battling cancer, for a relationship with a woman 31 years his junior—a friend of his daughter.
Yasmine Green
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
