In a shocking twist in the world of sports officiating, the English Football Association (FA) has launched a full investigation into the latest 'referee scandal' that has left fans scratching their heads and bookies rubbing their hands in glee. Referee David Coote, who recently became the talk of the town, is under scrutiny for an alleged pre-match discussion that was more befitting of a poker night than the pressure of an English football match. The inquiry began after The Sun unveiled damning revelations that Coote had an innocent chat (allegedly) with a friend, in which they jokingly discussed dishing out yellow cards like party favors. Their target? Former Leeds United player Ezgjan Alioski. According to reports, Coote's friend suggested the yellow card while waggling an imaginary betting slip. “I told him to help me out and fit in a cheeky yellow before the match so I could cash in. You know how it is, just a bit of banter among mates!” the friend reportedly said, immediately after which his phone mysteriously buzzed with notifications from several betting apps. In a world where referees have been accused of everything from bias to poor eyesight, some speculate this latest entry into the pantheon of scandal might need a new category: pre-match shenanigans. One amused spectator commented, “Is there anything funnier than a referee needing to ensure their friends can place the right bets? Next thing you know, they'll be arguing over whether a dive merits a yellow card or just a free drink at the nearest pub!” As the investigation picks up momentum, an intriguing question emerges: could this be a case of a referee crossing the line or simply a case of sports officials trying to add a bit of spice to their otherwise dull Monday? The FA has been quick to reassure everyone that all are innocent until proven carded, and that no actual betting occurred – only some good old-fashioned friendly chatter, prompting many to query whether 'banter' should have official recognition under the laws of football. Coote has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, stating, "I always keep my cards close to my chest. In my defense, I just enjoy a bit of banter!" Critics across the league are now urging referees to avoid all forms of communication before matches, including those hushed conversations over the warmups, fearing it might inadvertently lead to an entirely new definition of fixing matches. In response, several bookmakers have announced new markets named "The Pre-Match Yellow Card," which allow punters to predict which referees might show friendly reconsideration regarding their card counts. As for the rest of the refereeing community, they are quietly checking their group chats to ensure none of their own quips might lead to unexpected FA visits. As the dust settles from this off-pitch debacle, one thing is clear: in football, even a laugh can turn into a ban and, who knows, maybe the next generation of referees will forego the controversy and just stick to issuing handsakes—once the match ends, of course. Who needs cards when you can have camaraderie?