Sky have disciplined presenters Andy Gray and Richard Keys after both of them was caught up in a sexism row when they suggested that female officials have no place in football.Keys and Gray believed their microphones were turned off and were heard agreeing that Sian Massey and other female assistant referees "did not know the offside rule".
Barney Francis, managing director of Sky Sports, said: "Their comments were totally unacceptable."
Keys and Gray have been the face of Sky Sports football coverage since the introduction of English top-flight football matches to satellite broadcaster in 1992.
Speaking before yesterday’s televised game, Keys added: "Somebody better get down there and explain offside to her."
Gray quipped: "Women don't know the offside rule."
In a statement on Monday, Francis explained his decision for disciplining the pair.
He said: "I have spoken directly to both Richard Keys and Andy Gray this morning.
"It has been made clear to each of them that their comments were totally unacceptable.
"Those views are inexcusable, entirely inconsistent with our ethos as a business and employer, and will rightly offend many of our customers, our people, and the wider public.
"They are inexcusable from anyone at Sky, regardless of their role or seniority. We have dealt with this matter by taking immediate disciplinary action.
"As with any employee it would not be right to go into detail on those proceedings. However, they have been clearly warned about their behaviour and reminded of their responsibilities.
"In addition, Richard and Andy will not be involved in any way with tonight's live Monday Night Football."
