Sky Sports apologise after outrage at 'insensitive and regrettable comments' during Everton match
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Sky Sports has apologised after being criticised for 'insensitive and regrettable comments' made during an Everton football match
PA
Sky Sports has apologised after being criticised for 'insensitive and regrettable comments' made during an Everton football match
Sky Sports has apologised after being criticised for "insensitive and regrettable comments" made during an Everton football match.
Commentators mocked black armbands worn by the team in honour of Michael Jones, the 26-year-old fan who died working at the site of their new stadium at Bramley Moore Dock last week.
Bill Leslie and Andy Hinchliffe received backlash after they said Everton manager, Sean Dyche looked "like a croupier" - a casino operator - in his white shirt and black armband.
Sky Sports has now issued an apology for "any upset or distress" caused by the comments, adding that they have reminded the commentators of their "responsibilities and the need for care and sensitivity".
Commentators mocked black armbands worn by the team in honour of Michael Jones, the 26-year-old fan who died working at the site of their new stadium at Bramley Moore Dock last week
PA
A spokesperson said: "Comments made during the Aston Villa v Everton game were insensitive and regrettable.
"We have spoken to everyone involved in the coverage including both the commentators and have reminded them of their responsibilities and the need for care and sensitivity.
"We apologise for any upset or distress caused by these comments."
During the match, fans held banners to honour Jones and his support of the club.
Both Everton and rivals Liverpool visited the site of the new stadium to lay wreaths in tribute to the construction worker.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp also lead his players in a minute's silence after placing the flowers.
While working on the site on August 14, Jones suffered "severe head injuries" and was rushed to hospital, but died later that day.
Following the incident, contractors Laing O'Rourk suspended work on the project until further notice and shared a statement that expressed their "shock and sadness" at Jones' passing.
They also vowed to see the organisation "cooperate fully with any investigation that follows".
Everton also released a statement following the incident, saying that everyone at the club was "heartbroken" by Jones' tragic death.
Black armbands were also worn by Everton's Under-21 side in their match against Liverpool on August 14.