Sky Sports has apologized for “insensitive comments” made during coverage of Everton’s 4-0 defeat by Aston Villa on Sunday.
Commentary duo Bill Leslie and Andy Hinchcliffe compared Everton manager Sean Dyche, who wore a black armband in memory of a recently deceased supporter, to a “croupier” (a worker at the casino).
Dyche wore the armband in honor of Everton supporter Michael Jones, 26, who died earlier this month while working on the construction of the club’s new stadium.
To mark his death, Everton players and staff wore armbands in honor of Jones, while a minute’s applause was also held in the 26th minute of Sunday’s game. Sky covered the applause in the 26th minute.
Comments from Leslie and former Everton player Hinchcliffe sparked widespread criticism online, with the broadcaster later apologizing for the offence.
Both commentators are understood to have expressed regret for their actions.
A statement of The Athletic said: “The comments made during the Aston Villa v Everton game were insensitive and regrettable.
“We spoke to everyone involved in the coverage including the commentators and reminded them of their responsibilities and the need for care and sensitivity.
“We apologize for any trouble or distress these comments have caused.”
Everton have lost their opening two Premier League games and their next game against Wolves on Saturday.
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