Transfer deadline day: Sky Sports sorry over swearing and sex toy incident – The Guardian

Sky Sports News has apologised after it broadcast swearing and scenes of a fan waving a sex toy during its transfer deadline day coverage.

Communications watchdog Ofcom could launch an investigation after viewers complained about foul-mouthed outbursts being broadcast live.

Reporters covering the day’s events had to deal with crowds of rowdy supporters outside the grounds and had to apologise several times for the swearing.

The chaotic scenes included a fan who waved a sex toy at Sky Sports News’s Alan Irwin when he was reporting on Tom Cleverley possibly leaving Manchester United. The reporter managed to remain calm despite continued provocation from the fan, who was eventually removed by security.

TV comic Simon Brodkin turned up in character as his footballer creation Jason Bent, claiming he had signed for Queens Park Rangers to “play in the Premiership this season and in the Championship next season”.

Ofcom said eight viewers complained about offensive language.

The complaints are being assessed before the watchdog decides whether to investigate the coverage.

The channel, which broadcast more than 270 live reports in 24 hours, has not had any direct complaints.

Its coverage, fronted by Jim White, has a cult following among fans desperate to discover whom their team have signed before the closure of the transfer window.

A Sky Sports News spokesman said: “Millions of viewers followed our coverage of transfer deadline day, which included over 270 live reporter updates from outside football clubs over the final 24 hours.

“We apologise to those whose enjoyment was spoiled by a small number of incidents and we’re looking into ways to avoid this happening again in the future whilst ensuring fans remain a key part our live coverage.”

The biggest deals this year saw Monaco striker Radamel Falcao join Manchester United on loan, while Danny Welbeck left the Old Trafford club for Premier League rivals Arsenal.