Gordon Strachan dropped by Sky after Adam Johnson comments

Sky distanced itself from Strachan’s remarks and it is understood he will not be used as a contributor again. A Sky statement said: “The comments were made by a guest on The Debate. Of course Sky Sports does not support the comments and we’re sorry for the offence they have caused.”

Strachan later apologised for “any unintended distress caused” and added: “Given the response in the last 24 hours to a point made on The Debate programme on Sky Sports from over a week ago, and having reflected on it personally, it is important for me to address the issues that have arisen.

“In no way did I intended to confuse or conflate the very serious issue of racism targeted at footballers with the potential verbal abuse towards a player who has been convicted of a sexual offence.

“Having reviewed the particular segment in light of the reaction, I fully acknowledge that the imprecise use of language in my initial response has left open a perception that should easily have been avoided. For that I sincerely apologise.”

He added that he wanted “to reaffirm my condemnation of the behaviour that led to the player’s conviction, to convey my heartfelt sympathy and support to the survivor, and to apologise for any unintended distress caused.”