News

Jeff Stelling lays into former employers Sky Sports!

Published

4 months ago

January 23, 2024

Jeff Stelling launched a scathing critique against his former employer, Sky Sports, for their coverage of what he deemed “the biggest story of the day.” The seasoned broadcaster, who parted ways with Sky after three decades, predominantly spent on presenting the Soccer Saturday program, expressed his discontent with Sky’s handling of the mass pitch invasion that led to the abandonment of Reading’s clash with Port Vale.

Having bid farewell to Sky on May 28, Stelling has since been involved with the talkSPORT breakfast program and a goals show for Amazon Prime’s Premier League games. However, his dissatisfaction surfaced on a Saturday afternoon when he was incensed by Sky’s treatment of the pitch invasion at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, where Reading fans protested against the points deduction under controversial owner Dai Yongge.

In the 16th minute, a substantial number of Royals fans flooded the pitch, symbolizing the points deduction imposed on the club. Reading, grappling with financial challenges, currently finds itself in the relegation zone in League One, and the fans made a significant statement during the match.

Despite some fans eventually leaving the pitch, hundreds remained, leading to a suspension and eventually the decision to abandon the match. Stelling, however, criticized Sky’s coverage of the incident. Sky’s Simon Thomas referred to the protest as “tennis balls on the pitch,” and there seemed to be no on-site reporter.

Expressing his discontent on X (formerly Twitter), the 68-year-old broadcaster wrote, “When a club which was in PL not long ago is in the position they are in, this is the biggest story of the day in my opinion. Why is there no reporter there? Everyone knew there was going to be a protest!”

When challenged by someone, Stelling retorted, “I am a member of the public with a right to express an opinion.” The pitch invasion followed financial troubles, unpaid wages, and taxes, leading the EFL to recommend a 12-month ban from football involvement for Dai Yongge. However, the disciplinary commission did not enforce this recommendation.

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