Sky Sports has publicly apologized to Nottingham Forest over comments made by pundit Gary Neville following the club's 2-0 defeat to Everton last season. The apology comes in response to Neville's harsh criticism of the club, which he likened to a 'mafia gang' in his commentary.
Nottingham Forest found itself at the center of controversy after releasing a strongly-worded statement in April. The club expressed its frustration with referee Anthony Taylor and VAR (Video Assistant Referee) following three decisions that went against them during their match against Everton.
The statement from Forest described the failure to award three penalties as 'extremely poor' and indicated that it would 'consider its options'. In an unexpected twist, they even suggested that VAR Stuart Atwell was biased due to being a Luton Town fan, amidst Luton's struggle against relegation.
Sky Sports issued apology for Neville’s behaviour
This accusation prompted a stern response from Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville who did not mince words when expressing his views on the matter. "It’s like a mafia gang statement, honestly… what the hell are they playing at?” said Neville.
Following these remarks, Sky released an official statement on April 21 addressing Neville's comments. They confirmed having spoken with him about his choice of language and assured viewers that he had agreed not use similar language in future broadcasts. Additionally, they extended their apologies for any offence caused by his comments.
Sky Sports released a statement:
"Gary has agreed not to use the same or similar terms in future coverage. Sky Sports apologises to Nottingham Forest for any offence caused by this language."
"In response to a Nottingham Forest statement outlining their grievances with PGMOL following their match with Everton on 21 April Gary Neville, commenting on Super Sunday, strongly criticised Nottingham Forest's approach. Sky Sports have discussed with Gary the language used and its potential to cause offence."
Nottingham Forest escaped relegation eventually
The full initial statement from Nottingham Forest read: “Three extremely poor decisions - three penalties not given - which we simply cannot accept." The club also claimed it had warned PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) about potential bias before the game but saw no change in personnel or decision-making process.
Nottingham Forest released statement:
“Three extremely poor decisions - three penalties not given - which we simply cannot accept. We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn’t change him. Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options.”
Despite the controversy and a rocky season, Nottingham Forest managed to secure their place in the Premier League. They finished 17th in the Premier League table with 32 points, six clear of Luton Town. However, this did not prevent them from making significant changes within their ranks. In December, they sacked manager Steve Cooper following a run of five defeats in six games. Former Wolves and Tottenham boss Nuno Espirito Santo was brought in as his replacement.
The incident involving Gary Neville's comments serves as a reminder of the high stakes and intense emotions involved in professional football. As sports fans and betting enthusiasts alike know all too well, every decision on the pitch can have far-reaching consequences both on and off it.
