Sky Sports has apologised for an insensitive comment made by its commentators during the coverage of Everton’s 4-0 loss to Aston Villa on Sunday. The comment was directed at Everton manager Sean Dyche, who was wearing a black armband in memory of a fan who died while working on the club’s new stadium.
Everton fan Michael Jones died in a tragic accident
Michael Jones, a 37-year-old Everton fan, died on August 9 after falling from a cherry picker while working on the club’s new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium. He was a father of two and a lifelong supporter of the Toffees. He had also worked on the construction of Liverpool’s Anfield stadium and Manchester City’s Etihad stadium.
Everton paid tribute to Jones by wearing black armbands and holding a minute’s applause before their Premier League game against Southampton on August 14. The club also invited his family to attend the game and presented them with a signed shirt and flowers.
Sky Sports commentators made an inappropriate remark
During the broadcast of Everton’s game against Aston Villa on Sunday, Sky Sports commentators Bill Leslie and Andy Hinchcliffe made an inappropriate remark about Dyche’s black armband. They said:
The comment was met with criticism and outrage from Everton fans and others on social media, who called it disrespectful, insensitive and unprofessional.
Sky Sports issued an apology and spoke to the commentators
Sky Sports issued an apology for the comment on Monday, saying:
The apology was welcomed by some Everton fans, who appreciated the swift response from Sky Sports. However, some fans also demanded that the commentators be sacked or suspended for their remark.
Everton manager Sean Dyche did not respond to the comment
Everton manager Sean Dyche did not respond to the comment made by the Sky Sports commentators during his post-match press conference. He focused on his team’s performance, which he admitted was poor and unacceptable.
Everton lost 4-0 to Aston Villa, their second consecutive defeat in the Premier League. They conceded three goals in the first half and one more in the second half, as they failed to create any clear chances. Dyche said:
Everton are currently 13th in the Premier League table, with six points from four games. They will face Burnley at home on September 11 after the international break.
