Experienced commentator Clive Tyldesley has reportedly been sacked by Soccer Aid bosses for his fat-shaming remarks during ITV’s coverage of the event recently - but bosses have refuted the claim.
Soccer Aid 2020 took place on September 6 at Old Trafford behind closed doors as celebrities and legends took to the hallowed turf at the Theatre of Dreams.
The charity match raised more than £11million for global aid charity Unicef.
England ended up losing the game to the Soccer Aid World XI on penalties after an entertaining 1-1 draw.
But the attention of the viewers wasn’t always on the footballing action after Tyldesley made some rather untoward remarks about some of the participants.
The ITV legend’s comments and comedian Tom Davis and entertainer Chunkz have come in for heavy criticism, leaving bosses with no choice but to axe him from the role, according to the Sun.
One of his remarks about Chunkz was that he is so big you could “take guided tours around him”.
It’s thought that the YouTube star and rapper was left very upset in the changing rooms after being told what was said.
There were also accusations that Tyldesley mixed some players up whilst commentating on the match.
An insider told The Sun: “Clive’s been told he won’t be back for next year’s Soccer Aid because of the comments he made. It was clear that while Clive thought he was just having a laugh, no one really found his jokes funny, let alone Tom and Chunkz who bore the brunt of them.
“Soccer Aid raises millions for children and is watched by kids and young people across the UK. Having them listen to someone like Clive then mocking players for their weight seems totally unacceptable.
“People made their voices heard on social media and the bosses at Soccer Aid listened.
“Clive understands why he won’t be back.
“And it will be put forward as them bringing in new blood when it comes to the commentators on next year’s game.”
But Soccer Aid say no decision has been taken over his future.
A spokesperson said: "Soccer Aid for Unicef 2020 raised a record £9.3m, thanks to the generosity of the public.
"This was also made possible by the many celebrities and former professional footballers who all gave their time for free, amongst whom is the game’s commentator Clive Tyldesley.
"Clive has commentated on eight Soccer Aid for Unicef matches and everyone connected to the event is thankful to him for his continued support.
"Clive has not been sacked as a Soccer Aid for Unicef commentator. Where Clive - or any other member of talent - is concerned no decision has been taken on their respective involvement in future matches.
"This is normal protocol given planning for the next Soccer Aid for Unicef will only commence in 2021.
Tyldesley was demoted by ITV back in June after 22 years as the broadcaster’s senior commentator.
