Sky Sports apologise to SFA over Andy Walker's 'easy way out' VAR claims

Sky Sports has apologised to the Scottish Football Association over claims by Andy Walker that he heard a VAR official tell a referee that giving an offside decision could give them an “easy way out” of a contentious decision.

The Scottish football commentator, who made the comments in a podcast, is said to regret the claims that made headline news on Wednesday.

Walker revealed he listened in to a conversation between the officials and was shocked when he heard one say “the easiest way out of this, is if it’s offside”.

Sky released a statement on Thursday and say assurances have been provided to the SFA over their use of VAR.

A spokesperson for the broadcaster said: “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.”

Walker never revealed the game or officials involved in the discussion that took place during a Premiership game that was shown live on Sky earlier this season.