Advertisement
Sunderland boss David Moyes.
Inappropriate

More misery for Moyes as FA charge Sunderland boss over 'slap' remark to female reporter

The Sunderland boss’s comments were deemed to have brought the game into disrepute.

SUNDERLAND MANAGER DAVID Moyes has been charged by the English Football Association after being caught on camera commenting that he would slap a female reporter following a post-match interview.

The incident occurred following the Black Cats’s goalless draw at home to Burnley on 18 March, when Moyes was asked by BBC reporter Vicki Sparks whether he felt under additional pressure given the attendance of chairman Ellis Short at the game.

After the interview, Moyes was caught on camera saying: “Just getting a wee bit naughty at the end there so just watch yourself.

“You still might get a slap even though you’re a woman.”

A smiling Moyes then added: “Careful the next time you come in.”

Moyes later stated that he regretted his comments and had contacted Sparks to apologise, which was confirmed by Sunderland and the BBC.

However, the FA has taken a dim view of the incident and has charged the Sunderland boss.

A statement read: “David Moyes has been charged in relation to comments made after the game against Burnley on 18 March 2017.

“It is alleged the Sunderland manager’s remarks were improper and/or threatening and/or brought the game into disrepute, contrary to FA Rule E3(1).

“He has until 6pm on 3 May 2017 to reply to the charge.”

The news compounds a miserable period for the former Manchester United and Everton boss as Sunderland look increasingly destined to be playing in England’s second tier next season.

Sunderland are currently three points adrift at the foot of the Premier League table and while they do have games in hand on those above them, they are 12 points behind 17th-placed Hull City.

The Black Cats can go level on points with north-east rivals Middlebrough with a victory at the Riverside tonight.

The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!

Several arrests made after police raid Newcastle and West Ham over transfer dealings

Mourinho: City favourites for top four, not United

Your Voice
Readers Comments
1
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.