Sky Sports forced to issue live apology after controversial Tim Sherwood comments on Man City

Sherwood's comments centred on City's transfer market approach while facing 115 Premier League charges for alleged financial rule breaches.

The broadcaster was forced to distance itself from the former Tottenham midfielder's views following an advertising break.

During the broadcast, Sherwood made pointed remarks about City's transfer activities, questioning their spending amid ongoing investigations.

"They seem to be the only team who can spend money, and they've got 115 [charges] over their head," Sherwood said during the discussion.

The former England international went further, suggesting City "make their own rules up" when it comes to transfers.

He added: "These players they've brought in are certainly for now and the future. If there's players available they will go and get them, even if they have to pay over the top, they don't care."

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The exchange between Sherwood and fellow pundit Paul Merson then turned to speculation about potential sanctions.

Merson asked: "Do you think, Tim, they know they're gonna get a transfer embargo?"

"Perhaps yeah, they must know something," Sherwood responded.

Merson continued the discussion, suggesting: "If you give Haaland a nine-year contract you're thinking this could be a two, three, four-year transfer embargo."

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Sherwood also criticised City's summer transfer strategy, stating: "They made a mistake by not buying in the summer. I think they've realised that."

Following the discussion, presenter Simon Thomas addressed viewers after a commercial break with a clear message distancing Sky from Sherwood's comments.

"Welcome back, before we get underway, the whistles going around the country, we had a conversation earlier today in the build up about Manchester City, their transfer business," Thomas said.

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He then delivered Sky Sports' formal apology: "There was a comment made about Man City and the rules. I just want to say that they are absolutely not the views of Sky Sports and we apologise to Manchester City for those comments."

Manchester City's hearing against the Premier League over the charges concluded in December, having begun in September at London's International Dispute Resolution Centre.

City, who strongly deny any wrongdoing, could face significant penalties if found guilty, including financial sanctions, points deductions or relegation.

The original 115 charges have now increased to 130 following an administration issue.

The charges span a 14-year period, including allegations of failing to report accurate financial information between 2009-10 and 2017-18, and failing to cooperate with investigations from 2018 to 2023.

An initial verdict is expected in the coming months.