Both Sky Sports and the FA condemned the comments, which led to Keys resigning from his role and Gray being sacked. Something went wrong, please try again later. It is thought that with the show's panel being made up entirely of white men of a certain age, Sky felt that Soccer Saturday's existing format had run its course. PGMO general manager Mike Riley said: "PGMO and Sian believe that with any football match the focus should not be on the officials but on the players and the game itself. See charming Karren Brady this morning complaining about sexism? ', When asked whether pundits on Sky Sports had been told to wear the badge, Le Tissier laughed and said: 'We were asked to wear it.'. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/, The popular trio will be sorely missed by the millions of armchair football fans, The three presenters have been axed by Sky Sports, Charlie Nicholas pictured in 2003 working for Sky, Le Tissier reports on a major moment in 2008, Thompson has also been a regular for over a decade, and is pictured here in 2008, The trio were regulars on Gillette Soccer Saturday, Matt Le Tissier was recently slated for his controversial views on coronavirus, Former Arsenal star Charlie Nicholas has been given his marching orders, Phil Thompson played for Liverpool and Sheffield United during his career, Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO). Tyldesley's voice has provided the backdrop to historic matches over more than two decades at major international tournaments and the biggest games in club football, including 17 Champions League finals. Hayley Mcqueen. David Jones. The comments below have not been moderated. We are no longer accepting comments on this article. Yours was the voice of my sporting youth, Champions League on terrestrial was appointment viewing. It follows a row in June over Black Lives Matter badges after Le Tissier claimed Sky bosses had asked him to wear one on air as the movement gathered pace and the broadcaster used BLM branding across its output amid efforts to improve diversity. "If you're in a pub and a masculine type is bothering someone at the bar, we don't like that. 'I am hugely excited by the future and will be sharing news soon of my next project. Sky Sports' Martin Tyler has shared his memories of John Motson, after his legendary fellow commentator died at the age of 77 on Thursday. ", Gray then stated: "If off-air conversations of television and radio presenters were recorded, there would be no one left working. "Sian is an excellent professional who has unwittingly found herself in the middle of a story that has nothing to do with her competence as a match official. "Sian has the full backing of PGMO and we hope she continues her development, which has shown excellent progress so far. Bumble senses when the viewer needs cheering up and can always bring a smile to their faces, whether it is by singing Sweet Caroline or just making a little one-liner. What have they done, what have these guys done? The USWNT has a new superstar , 'They're taking the p*ss!' Sky confirmed that the incident in question is a new YouTube clip that emerged today, that showed Gray making sexist comments to co-presenter Charlotte Jackson before going on air. Le Tissier had it written into his Sky contract that he didnt have to wear a tie for the weekend and mid-week television shows. Please turn on JavaScript. 'ITV have been really good for me and yes I'll carry on as their No 2 commentator but let me make it quite clear, I have not stepped down, I have been moved. What have they done, what have these guys done? Earlier on Tuesday it was announced that Burton was "spoken to and warned" about his remarks and he would not be involved in Sky's coverage of Wednesday's Carling Cup tie between Birmingham and West Ham. The 51-year-old hit out at the movement's 'far-left ideology' as black footballer Karl Henry also branded the group 'divisive'. Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right. Andy Gray and Richard Keys caught on camera speaking to Clare Tomlinson in clip from early 2000s. , 'They're taking the p*ss!' Quite a few people have been in touch with me, asking me to react, to comment, um, I'm not sure that would be a very good idea at the moment. I do not know exactly why this decision has been taken, already I've got the producer of a broadcaster I am working on asking if I've got any health issues. Rooney burst into the spotlight with that stunning 90th-minute winner against Arsenal way back in 2002. 'These guys, Matt Le Tissier, Charlie Nicholas, Phil Thompson, they've had an unbelievable run. I don't know. Sky Sports said none of the presenters were obliged to wear the badge. Speaking outside his home near Southampton, he said: 'I just don't agree with some of the points of that movement - specifically the defunding of the police and the anti capitalist points are things I do not agree with. Much like BBC's star-studded commentary panel, Sky Cricket also have an equally popular commentary panel. 'I was told about three weeks ago so I have had some time to get my head around the decision but I haven't got my head around it. MATT LE TISSIER has been kicked off Sky Sports along with his fellow Soccer Saturday pundits Charlie Nicholas and Phil Thompson. However, according to Joe Saward in the 'Inside F1' podcast, David Croft could be on his way out of Sky Sports, as the team isn't quite happy with him. Brady said the comments made her "blood boil" while the England captain Rio Ferdinand labelled them "prehistoric". 'They have been part of a team that for me was the best.'. Burton had been due to appear in his role as a touchline reporter on Sky's coverage of tomorrow night's Carling Cup semi-final second leg between Birmingham City and West Ham but will now be replaced. It's a simple thing, I agree with the cause but there are parts of the organisation that I just cannot support. "The racism is going through the roof today," Wright said. He started presenting on Sky Sports News in July 2007, before leaving in late 2010. The statement from the broadcaster said: We are changing some parts of our football coverage Matt, Charlie and Phil have done a great job for us over the years, and they will leave us with our sincere thanks and very best wishes., Soccer Saturday host Jeff Stelling reacted to the announcement in despair, tweeting: "One of my saddest days ever at Sky Sports with the departure of three of my best mates. We also may change the frequency you receive our emails from us in order to keep you up to date and give you the best relevant information possible. A left-handed batter and left-arm spinner for Lancashire, he played nine Tests and eight one-day internationals for England between 1973 and 1980. To inquire about a licence to reproduce material, visit our Syndication site. But Gray's former Everton team-mate Peter Reid linked the ex-Sky pundit's dismissal to the He admitted that himself and phoned Rafiq personally to apologise, as well apologising to the wider Asian community and affirming his commitment to making cricket a more inclusive sport. This service is provided on News Group Newspapers' Limited's Standard Terms and Conditions in accordance with our Privacy & Cookie Policy. Featured review. The Ultimate Trivia Battle! The three men clocked close to 50 years service between them with Sky and will be greatly missed by the millions of armchair football fans who tuned into the long-running Gillette Soccer Saturday show. He doesnt make commentary about him. Joining regulars Jamie Carragher, Gary Neville, Roy Keane, Jamie Redknapp, Micah Richards and Graeme Souness, the new Sky Sports Football line-up will cover 128 Premier League matches including. Earlier today, a third Sky Sports presenter was taken off air. Tyldesley wrote: 'My experiences in football are considerable and what I have seen and experienced over the years has gradually formed my opinion. Rob Hawthorne has worked on Sky Sports since 1995 as a commentator. 2021 Associated Newspapers Limited. During lockdown, the popular commentator kept people entertained by commentating over clips of children playing football and even his wife's homemade lasagne. He's now openly gay. Through experiences you gain that wider perspective. 'All because three middle-aged white guys have got the sack. MATT LE TISSIER has been kicked off Sky Sports along with his fellow Soccer Saturday pundits Charlie Nicholas and Phil Thompson. It is never about Bumble. Matterface was then was appointed earlier this year to come into the role, starting in time for the new season, which then became delayed due to the coronavirus crisis. He later responded to Ian Wright's video, saying: 'Totally agree with you Ian Wright, excellent point well made, racism should be left out of this completely but from one middle aged bloke to another I thought I did a decent job'. They trailed Bayern Munich at the Nou Camp in the Champions League final thanks toMario Basler's goal before Tyldesley came up with a gem of a line. Gray and Keys have been the face of Sky Sports' football coverage since the satellite broadcaster started showing English top-flight matches in 1992. That is only fair to those connected with the clubs and their supporters. - Jose has become a laughing stock, Arsenal's plans to avoid bottling the title, Exclusive: Kovacic on Modric, CR7 and THAT Liverpool goal. On the latest Gary Neville Podcast, the Sky Sports pundit discusses Man Utd fan concerns about the Glazers and the issue of states investing in football clubs. The news comes less than 24 hours after Sky released a statement regarding the aforementioned Le Tissier and co. Stelling, who has presented Soccer Saturday for nearly 30 years, is said to have been furious when Charlie Nicholas, Phil Thompson and Matt Le Tissier were asked to leave the show last year. It has been reported that talkSPORT are set to snap him up for their coverage of Englands Test series in the Caribbean next March. ', said Tyldesley as Rooney wildly celebrated at Goodison Park. Can you believe that? Kenny [Dalglish] will go potty.". They will be lucky to have him. At present we have no plans to change the way we work with Andy. He was a boxing commentator for Sky Sports and presented their American football, as well as ice hockey, ten-pin bowling and numerous other events.. Halling used to co-present the National Football League (NFL) on Sky Sports along with Kevin Cadle. Paul Merson says it will be difficult for manager Graham Potter to recover if Chelsea compound a poor run of form with a loss to London rivals Tottenham on Sunday. Premier League clubs have privately distanced themselves from the proposed new version of the European Super League, believing it to be laughable, Sky Sports can reveal. With current restrictions due to end in April, the Serbian 22-time grand slam winner wants dispensation to enter the country and play the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells and the Miami Open. The Sun website is regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha is 'set to leave Selhurst Park as a free agent in the summer' - and could 'I don't read it': Romeo Lavia insists he is 'focused on his football' and helping Southampton avoid GRAEME SOUNESS talks to BRYAN ROBSON: I see people with pink and yellow boots and think "I'd just kick he was asked by bosses to wear the Black Lives Matter badge, temporarily quitting the social media platform Twitter, Do not sell or share my personal information. I don't consider it harmless banter at all. That is sad, not only because he is a fine person but a brilliant broadcaster. Presenter Jeff Stelling will remain, as will Arsenal legend Paul Merson. "From whiners to winners" - that's how Gary Neville described Erik ten Hag's transformation at Manchester United after their Carabao Cup final win. We use your sign-up to provide content in the ways you've consented to and improve our understanding of you. Digital, Culture, Media and Sport select committee hearing. During a Digital, Culture, Media and Sport select committee hearing about his experience of racism at Yorkshire, Rafiq said he had been told Lloyd messaged other members of the media that "a clubhouse is the lifeblood of a club, and Asian players don't go in there". Ive had a great 22 years with @SkySports.Enjoyed every minute with some amazing people on the show and behind the scenes which made it the iconic show it is today.Good luck to Sky, Jeff, Merse and the new gang on @SoccerSaturday. I look forward to being back on screen very soon.". 'Remember the name Wayne Rooney! The ex-Manchester City star tweeted yesterday: 'I saw I was trending today in relation to a brilliant and institutional Sky Sports TV show that I've never even been on. Gary Neville says the Premier League must persist with the use of VAR despite a controversial weekend of decisions as "the good far outweighs the bad". Keys later said: "Prehistoric banter isn't acceptable in the modern world.. Gray has been a key part of Sky's football coverage, Massey has found herself at the centre of a media storm, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites. Do me a favour, love.". In January 2011, long-time Sky Sports commentators Richard Keys and Andy Gray were forced to leave the broadcasting company after the leak of several tapes in which the duo were found to make . 679215 Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF. "Sian is an excellent professional who has unwittingly found herself in the middle of a story that has nothing to do with her competence as a match official. They were both a joy to work with and both will be sadly missed.. Micah Richards, the most exciting pundit to hit the scene in years. Speaking to MailOnline on June 30, Le Tissier said he was completely against racism but did not agree with some aims of the protest groups. I am quite happy for them to have their point of view, but that is mine and that is where I sit. In January 2011,long-time Sky Sports commentators RichardKeys and Andy Gray were forced to leave the broadcasting companyafter the leak of several tapes in which the duo were found to make derogatory, sexist comments about female referee Sian Massey and other female figures in the industry. 'I would like to wish the staff and teams at Sky all the very best for the forthcoming season - a season which is set to be truly spectacular both in the Premier League and EFL. Which Sky Sports presenters have been sacked? ", Keys attempted to apologise one last time before the end of his final hour-long broadcast, saying, "One last time, sorry. Creating a new men's skincare product leads to a sticky situation in Lord Sugar's boardroom Want to get into cricket? [3] On 12 January 2018, Matterface was confirmed as Matt Chapman's replacement as commentator for ITV 's Dancing on Ice. Sky Cricket Commentators 2021. 'Hello, hello. Sky said it is investigating Lloyd's alleged comments. Sky have not announced who will replace the trio. ", Keys attempted to apologise one last time before the end of his final hour-long broadcast, saying, "One last time, sorry. Sky said in a statement that the new evidence related to "an off-air incident that took place in December 2010" and "came to light after Andy Gray had already been subjected to disciplinary action for his comments of 22 January 2011". He presented the Waterloo Cup crown green bowls (independently produced) for Sky Sports until the mid-2000s. That is not to defend what happened. They have been part of a team that for me was the best. The Premier League confirmed that Keys had called Massey to apologise, but that did not stop himfrom continuing blaming the ordeal on "misguided fun"and referring to"lads' mag humour", attributing it as normal inpubs, clubs and dressing rooms across the country. Sky Sports cricket coverage will certainly be poorer and a lot less entertaining following the decision by David Lloyd to retire after 22 years with the broadcaster. "And so I feel it is time for me to do the same and move on to the next chapter.". Sky on Tuesday refused to comment on the. Enjoy The Ride - Sky Sports F1 Promo 2023 . It is important for PGMO to have talented people from all backgrounds getting involved in refereeing. Keep their names out of your stinking unbrushed teeth mouths. Bruno: People doubted we'd be in this position; Ten Hag made us believe, Carra: Liverpool 'embarrassing' | 'I'd take Van Dijk's place at the moment', Nev: Fans worried Glazers will stay | 'Horse has bolted' on state ownership, PL clubs laugh off new Super League push | A22: We don't need English teams, Neville: We must persist with VAR | The good far outweighs the bad, Neville: Pep must switch tactics vs Arsenal | 'Gunners wobble unsurprising', How Anfield 'brain drain' has hurt Klopp's Liverpool, Merson Says: What have Leeds done? What?'. I'm not sorry for me, I'm sorry for Sian Massey. On Monday, additional video footage emerged of Gray, a former Scotland international and striker with Aston Villa, Wolves and Everton, talking off-air with Sky Sports' pitchside reporter Andy Burton about Massey. But they've done brilliantly. It was wrong. In January 2011,long-time Sky Sports commentators RichardKeys and Andy Gray were forced to leave the broadcasting companyafter the leak of several tapes in which the duo were found to make derogatory, sexist comments about female referee Sian Massey and other female figures in the industry. A community rec center that offers a multitude of sports housed in 60,000+sqft on 12+ Acres in PV. It read: "It is with a heavy heart that after 13 incredible years with Sky Sports I share the news that I will no longer be working with Sky and be part of their ongoing football coverage. Gray has instructed law firm Schillings to represent him over the termination of his contract, while Massey was withdrawn from her duties as an assistant referee for Tuesday's League Two game between Crewe and Bradford. Bumble was the lead commentator but he turned to Ian Bishop and said this is West Indies moment. There is an attitude that exists such as that. All rights reserved. Keys later said: "Prehistoric banter isn't acceptable in the modern world.. Manchester United were on the cusp of missing out on an unimaginable 'Treble' of Premier League, FA Cup and European Cup back in 1999. He recently contributed a piece for Sportsmailabout how stereotyping in commentary is morally wrong, after a report from a Danish research firm found there was a clear racial bias in football commentary. He has worked as a commentator for Sky Sports since 1990, covering the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, as well as other domestic and international competitions. Sky has sacked football presenter Andy Gray after further allegations of his sexist behaviour came to light. Moved aside. Matt Le Tissier said he would a Black Lives Matter badge (circled) on Sky Sports but did not support their anti-capitalism aims. Do me a favour, love.". Graham Little. ', Former Liverpool defender Thompson tweeted: 'Enjoyed every minute with some amazing people on the show and behind the scenes which made it the iconic show it is today. Keys later said: "Prehistoric banter isn't acceptable in the modern world. View our online Press Pack. "The Sun", "Sun", "Sun Online" are registered trademarks or trade names of News Group Newspapers Limited. Why are people upset?.". ", Glittering drama based on the audacious Brinks-Mat security depot heist, A corrupt copper and a Leeds gangster are bound together by decades of dishonesty. Stelling appeared gutted by the news, writing on Twitter in reply to Le Tissier: "One of my saddest days ever at Sky Sports with the departure of three of my best mates. Somebodys f*cked up big., Keys was also found to have made a comment aboutWest Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady's newspaper column, saying:"The game's gone mad. No! The pair discussed Massey's appointment for the game at Molineux on Saturday, speaking when they believed their microphones were switched off. Gray has gone to the High Court in an attempt to force private investigator Glenn Mulcaire to reveal which News of the World journalists asked him to hack into his phone. "There is not inherent sexism at Sky, nor in the sports department or the football department. Get the FREE Mirror Football newsletter with the day's key headlines and transfer news straight into your inbox. ', Minto had fronted Sky Sports' EFL coverage, as well as presenting their LaLiga programmes. Sky Sports Cricket said Lloyd was a "star" member of their commentary team, with an "extraordinary ability to inform and entertain in equal measure". I think a lot of people in the country would agree with me. about his experience of racism at Yorkshire, Rafiq said he had been told Lloyd messaged other members of the media that "a clubhouse is the lifeblood of a club, and Asian players don't go in there". "Thank you Bumble for your service. Le Tissier, Thompson and Nicholas were told during a meeting with chiefs yesterday that their time on the show was up, but ex-Arsenal star Paul Merson was retained. He said: 'If you haven't seen the announcement, I am being replaced as ITV's senior football commentator. "I apologise most sincerely to Azeem and to the Asian community for doing this, and for any offence caused," he said. Le Tissier says he was asked by bosses to wear the Black Lives Matter badge, but stressed he 'could not support' the cause's anti police and capitalist aims.