A pair of British television soccer pundits caught up in a sexism row were dropped from covering Monday's Premier League game between Bolton and Chelsea.

Andy Gray, the former Scotland international, and Richard Keys were stood down by Sky Sports after making "unacceptable remarks" off-air about a woman assistant referee officiating at Saturday's match between Wolves and Liverpool.

Gray, a pundit, and Keys, a presenter, caused a stir when, believing their microphones to be switched off, discussed lineswoman Sian Massey and agreed female officials "don't know the offside rule".

Keys said: "I can guarantee you there'll be a big one today. (Liverpool manager) Kenny (Dalglish) will go potty."

Keys, who has been in trouble before with remarks made off air but caught on microphone, later apologized to Massey after he had been told he would not be presenting the Monday night game - Massey accepted it.

Barney Francis, managing director of Sky Sports, said: "I have spoken directly to both Richard Keys and Andy Gray this morning.

"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 behavior and reminded of their responsibilities.

"In addition, Richard and Andy will not be involved in any way with tonight's live Monday Night Football."

The Football Association gave its support to Massey, and England captain Rio Ferdinand also stepped in to the row, defending Massey against the Sky duo's "prehistoric views".

Agence France-Presse

(China Daily 01/26/2011 page22)