Commentator Martin Tyler could be in trouble over Son comment

Sky Sports commentator Martin Tyler has been reminded of the need for care with his wording after making a comment about Tottenham Hotspur’s Heung-Min Son during Sunday’s game against Liverpool.

The 77-year-old, who has been the main commentator for Sky Sports for over 30 years, was describing a challenge by Son on Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo when he compared it to “something out of martial arts”.

Many viewers took offence, perceiving the comment to be racist as Son is Asian. Sky Sports stressed that no offence was intended, but admitted conversations with Tyler had taken place.

This is not the first time Tyler has come under fire for his choice of wording during live commentary.

During a World Cup play-off game between Ukraine and Wales, he used the phrase “soldier on” in reference to Ukrainian goalkeeper Heorhiy Bushchan, which was seen as tasteless due to the war in the country.

He quickly apologised, adding “apologies if I’ve used that word inappropriately there.”

In the summer, Tyler was also criticised for describing the Hillsborough disaster as a “hooligan related issue” during an appearance on BBC Radio 4. Both Tyler and the BBC apologised in response to the backlash.