Sunderland's David Moyes to face FA rap over 'slap threat'
The English Football Association (FA) has written to the Sunderland manager David Moyes and sought "observations" about the sexist slap threat he made to a female reporter. Moyes was widely criticized across various quarters including England's shadow sports minister Rosena Allin-Khan who demanded FA action over Moyes' remark. Former England captain Gary Lineker also condemned Moyes' behaviour calling it "completely unacceptable."
Who is David Moyes?
David Moyes is a football coach who currently manages Sunderland AFC in the Premier League. He began his managerial career with Preston North End in 1998. His longest stint was at Everton where he had an 11-year-long career (2002-2013). Before his appointment with Sunderland in 2016, Moyes for a short period of time managed Manchester United (2013-14) and La Liga's Real Sociedad (2014-15).
Sunderland's place in Premier League
Sunderland are fighting the relegation battle in the Premier League where the bottom three clubs at the end of season get relegated to Championship, the second tier of English football league system. After 29 matches, Sunderland currently stands at bottom (20th) of the Premier League.
David Moyes threatens to slap a female BBC reporter
After Sunderland's 0-0 draw against Burnley on 18 March, David Moyes was asked by BBC correspondent Vicki Sparks if presence of club's owner Ellis Short put extra pressure on him. Moyes replied "No" but after interview 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."
Moyes 'deeply regrets' slap remark
Footage of Moyes' conversation with BBC reporter Vicki Sparks was published on website of tabloid Daily Star newspaper. Sparks who made no complaint of the incident at the time, said that the issue was resolved between the two. Moyes had rendered an apology for his remarks and said, "I deeply regret the comments I made. That's certainly not the person I am."
