'The last thing PGMOL needed' - Steve Cooper fumes at level of Premier League refereeing after Chelsea defeat as Leicester boss adds to complaints amid David Coote scandal

Cooper was particularly incensed by referee Andy Madley’s decisions during the match, which left him questioning the overall standard of officiating in English football. The flash point of the game for Cooper came in the 84th minute when Stephy Mavididi went down after a challenge from Wesley Fofana. Despite strong appeals, Madley chose not to award a penalty, and the VAR review supported his call.

Cooper described the decision as a glaring oversight, expressing frustration over what he saw as an inconsistency in the application of rules.

“When you play against teams like Chelsea, it’s about capitalising on your moments and hoping that the game is refereed in the right way, there is some of it on us,” Cooper told reporters.

The match marked the Premier League’s first fixture since referee David Coote was suspended after videos surfaced of him allegedly making offensive remarks about Liverpool and their former manager, Jurgen Klopp. Cooper acknowledged the challenging situation for Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) chief Howard Webb but emphasised the need for higher standards.

"We have had a tough season with the referee this year. This is the last thing the PGMOL needed this weekend, it’s not just a performance like that, but it being the first game as well. I felt a bit sorry for Howard (Webb). That’s how it is. It’s definitely topical, everyone wants it to be at the level it should be at. When international breaks give the chance to talk about things. That will be the case again.”

Earlier this season, Madley was the VAR official responsible for a controversial goal awarded to Crystal Palace in a match against Leicester. Additionally, he booked Cooper during Leicester’s Carabao Cup defeat to Manchester United. However, the manager steered clear of controversy when he was asked if he would have an issue with Madley officiating in Leicester City's matches in the future.

Cooper replied: “I shouldn’t get into that. I’d love to answer that to be honest but I’d be sat in the directors’ box. It’s an interesting season with him, sometimes it can go like that.”

With the season nearing its midway point, Cooper knows his side must find form quickly to avoid a prolonged battle for survival. Leicester’s defeat saw them fall further in the standings as they sit 16th in the Premier League table. The Foxes will now aim to reverse their fortunes when they face Brentford on November 30.