Gary Neville’s criticism of Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli during Sky Sports’ coverage of the match against Liverpool has prompted 576 complaints to Ofcom, the broadcasting regulator has reported. The incident occurred during the 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium on 13 January, when Martinelli pushed injured Liverpool player Conor Bradley, who was lying on the ground after suffering a serious knee injury.
Neville, co-commentating for Sky, expressed strong disapproval of Martinelli’s actions, saying: “You can’t push him off the pitch. You cannot do that. That is so poor. An apology is needed. Bradley is being stretchered off. I’m fuming with Martinelli to be honest.” He added that he was surprised Liverpool players did not retaliate, describing the behaviour as “absolutely disgraceful”.
Bradley underwent surgery following the incident and has been ruled out for the remainder of the domestic season. Martinelli later issued an apology for his conduct. The 576 complaints were the highest recorded in Ofcom’s weekly audience report for the period 6–12 January, with no other programme receiving more than 50 complaints.
