Shay Given wasted no time in making a return to television by appearing on Football Focus after his controversial remarks regarding former Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy. The former Premier League goalkeeper used inappropriate language during a discussion on Nancy’s brief tenure, prompting apologies from both him and the broadcaster.
Given criticized Nancy’s performance at Celtic, referring to the initial week of his reign as an “absolute Holocaust,” expressing regret that Martin O’Neill’s tenure was cut short. He highlighted a crucial week for the team, including matches against Hearts, Roma in the Europa League, and St Mirren in the League Cup final, suggesting O’Neill should have been given more time.
Following Given’s comments, BBC Sport host Jason Mohammad issued an on-air apology to viewers for the inappropriate language used. Given later took to social media to clarify his lack of understanding of the word he used and expressed remorse, pledging to donate his fee from the show to the Holocaust Educational Trust.
Nancy’s disappointing eight-game stint at Celtic, resulting in six losses, led to his dismissal. Martin O’Neill has returned to manage Celtic for the second time this season, marking his comeback with a 4-0 victory over Dundee United in the Scottish Premiership.
In other news, Sky has reduced the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the upcoming 2025/26 season, offering savings of £192 and showcasing over 1,400 live matches across various leagues, including the Premier League and EFL. Sky is set to broadcast at least 215 live Premier League games next season, a significant increase from previous seasons.