Broadcaster Sky have issued a grovelling apology over controversial claims made by commentator Andy Walker and the use of VAR in Scotland.
The former Celtic striker stated that he heard a video assistant through the Sky microphones telling a referee "the easiest way out" of a complicated call was "if it was offside", with the broadcaster permitted privileges including hearing discussions coming out of the VAR room. The revelation has rocked the Scottish Premiership and sparked a furious response from the Scottish Football Referees Association, with Record Sport revealing the ref representatives are pushing to have Sky’s use of the VAR audio to be scrapped.
The broadcaster has now moved to cool rising temperatures over the comments with the blockbuster game between Celtic and Rangers set to be shown on Saturday. A statement from Sky to Football Scotland read: "Sky Sports has discussed the matter internally and provided the Scottish FA assurances with regard to permitted use of the VAR audio.
"Andy Walker has also admitted his regret over his comments and how they have been reported by the podcast company who invited him to their show. We apologise to our colleagues at the Scottish FA with whom we have a strong relationship, and look forward to continuing to provide exclusive live coverage of the Scottish Premiership.”
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