DAVID JONES has apologised to Gary Neville and Sky Sports viewers for shutting down a heated discussion about racism.
The Super Sunday anchor butted in after the former Manchester United full-back delivered a speech about racism in football, politics and society.
Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger was the target of an alleged racist incident, where he reported monkey gestures made at him to the referee and had a lighter thrown at him.
Neville, who was co-commenting alongside Martin Tyler, spent much of the rest of the game commenting on the scourge of racism in football, and continued during the post-match analysis.
After he had spoken in the studio, Jones said: “I am compelled to say they are the opinions of you, Gary Neville, and not those of Sky Sports, that is my duty.”
Neville quickly replied: “Do you not agree with it then Dave?
Jones replied: “Whether I do or don’t is completely irrelevant, I’m here to try and hold a balanced debate.”
The interruption was immediately criticised by fans on social media for undermining Neville’s monologue.
Jones tweeted after the show: “I’m so sorry to have spoiled what was such an important discussion on racism tonight.
“I had to intervene when Gary suggested the two main political parties were to blame I didn’t make that clear enough. For that I apologise unreservedly.”
Sky tweeted: “Sky Sports is against racism of all forms in any walk of life and will continue to give a platform to eradicating this vile behaviour from society.”
Jones is also tied by the regulations of broadcasting watchdog Ofcom on matters of impartiality, because Neville referred to politics.
Their rules say: “Due impartiality on matters of political or industrial controversy and matters relating to current public policy must be preserved on the part of any person providing a service.”
