Former Premier League referee David Coote comes out as gay following suspension over cocaine use and Liverpool insults

English referee David Coote has been at the center of the most controversial officiating scandal of the season. He was previously suspended for making offensive remarks about Liverpool in a private video and for cocaine use. Now, Coote has made an important personal revelation.

Details: In an interview with The Sun, the former referee came out as gay. Coote explained that he hadn’t done so earlier to avoid abuse from fans regarding his sexual orientation. He also issued an apology for his offensive remarks in the video:

"I felt a deep sense of shame, particularly as a teenager. I didn’t come out to my parents until I was 21. I didn’t come out to my friends until I was 25.

I struggled with self-esteem issues, and that was tied to my sexuality. I’m gay, and for a long time, I wrestled with being proud of who I am. During my refereeing career, I faced a lot of abuse, and adding my sexuality to that would have been incredibly difficult.

I sincerely apologize for any offense caused by my actions and for the negative light they shed on the game I love.

I hope people understand these were private moments during a very difficult time in my life. They do not reflect who I am today or what I believe."

Reminder: In December, the Premier League permanently dismissed Coote from his refereeing role.