Sunderland manager David Moyes has apologised to a female reporter after comments in which he said she “might get a slap” after a postmatch interview.
Moyes was involved in an exchange with BBC Newcastle and Radio 5 Live reporter Vicki Sparks after the 0-0 draw with Burnley at the Stadium of Light on March 18.
Sparks had asked if owner Ellis Short’s presence at the game had meant Moyes was under more pressure with the club struggling to avoid relegation.
Footage published by the Daily Star shows him answering before the interview drew to a close: “No, none at all.”
However, thinking he was off camera, he then added: “You were 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.
“Careful the next time you come in.”
However, both Moyes and Sparks were laughing during the exchange and the reporter did not make a complaint, although colleagues were reported to have been unimpressed when they heard what had been said.
A Sunderland spokesperson said that Moyes had “called Vicki the day after, and his apology was accepted graciously by both Vicki and the BBC.”
The BBC said that Moyes and Sparks had spoken and the matter was resolved.
A spokesperson said: “Mr Moyes has apologised to our reporter and she has accepted his apology.”
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