Barney Francis, Managing Director of Sky Sports, said: “It is disappointing that Richard’s career at Sky should end in these circumstances. However, Richard recognises that his comments at the weekend were unacceptable and we note that he has made a full and public apology. We thank him for his time in helping make Sky Sports the success it is today.”Richard Keys said: “I am deeply sorry for my remarks and the offence they have caused; it was wrong and should not have happened. I have thought long and hard and reached the decision that it is time to move on. Going forward without Andy would have been almost impossible. I am and will remain proud of our work with football at Sky Sports and grateful to the many people who have worked with me. I wish Sky Sports continued success in the future."
The resignation of Keys, 53, follows Andy Gray's public apology. Gray said: "I am very sorry that certain comments made by me have caused offence. Such comments were made off air to work colleagues, and were of course never intended to be broadcast.
"I was very upset when the comments were brought to my attention, and it was my intention to apologise on Monday night when I was back on air for the Bolton v Chelsea game. Sadly I was unable to do so as I was suspended from the show by Sky Sports and have now been sacked.
"Football is my life and I am devastated by losing the job that I love. I am equally upset that third parties have been dragged into this issue."
Gray, 55, was given his marching orders after more embarrassing footage of him asking Sky Sports presenter Charlotte Jackson, 33, to tuck his microphone pack down his trousers. He says: "Charlotte, can you tuck this in here for me, love? Just tuck that in for me, love."
All of this follows sexist comments made by Keys and Gray before the football game between Wolves and Liverpool which they covered for Sky Sports that lineswoman Sian Massey, 25, didn't understand the offside rule.
