English Premier League side Sunderland’s manager David Moyes, on Wednesday, was charged by the English Football Association for threatening to slap BBC reporter Vicki Sparks during a post-match interview in March.
Moyes was irked over questions over whether he felt added pressure during the game – a goalless draw against Burnley at home – because Sunderland owner Ellis Short was watching the game from the stands. The Black Cats currently languish at the bottom of the EPL table, “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,” Moyes was overheard telling Sparks on camera after the interview.
The English FA has found the former Manchester United manager’s remarks “improper and/or threatening and/or brought the game into disrepute,” the Guardian reported.
Moyes apologised to Sparks after the incident and expressed regret over his comments, which the journalist had accepted. The 54-year-old has one week to reply to the charge.
