A report in The Sun claims that Andy Walker has been banned from Ibrox.
The former Celtic striker was notable for his absence from the commentary box for yesterday’s Glasgow derby with the blander than dish-water James McFadden drafted in to chuckle at the patter of Ally McCoist while Ian Crocker commentated.
Sky didn’t offer any explanation for the absence of Walker who has been alongside Crocker for every major domestic match over the last few years.
The current PR regime at Ibrox has made a habit of banning newspapers that stray off message but taking action against an employee of the SPFL broadcasting partner takes things to a whole new level.
The Sun reports:
EX-CELTIC striker Andy Walker has reportedly been banned from Ibrox – explaining his Old Firm absence.
It’s been claimed that the Sky Sports pundit has been told to stay away following a row over comments on the Light Blues’ finances.
Walker was missing from his usual position as co-commentator to Ian Crocker during Sunday’s derby clash in Govan.
In-game analysis instead came from Gers hero Ally McCoist and ex-Scotland star James McFadden, with Kris Boyd in the studio.
The Daily Mail report that the new Scottish Premiership champions are demanding an apology over comments made by the former Hoops forward regarding the club’s financial position. It is said the stand-off is the latest in a number of disagreements between Rangers and the broadcasting giants.
There has been no comment from the SPFL or Sky Sports with both organisations having a long history of doing as instructed by clubs from Ibrox.
Last year Sky Sports gave blanket coverage to an interview with Alfredo Morelos that was wrongly translated to accuse Celtic fans of racism. Peter Lawwell acted quickly to resolve the issue for the good of Scottish football.
