Football commentator 'apologises' for racist comment during Talksport FA Cup broadcast

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

John Motson has apologised to Millwall striker Tom Elliot after the commentator described him as "big, black and brave" during a radio broadcast.

Motson has been reprimanded by talkSPORT bosses for his comments and he contacted Elliott on Monday to say sorry for what he insisted was an error of judgement, apologising for any offence that may have been caused.

According to the Daily Mail , Elliott acknowledged the broadcaster's apology and made it clear he wants to draw a line under the controversy.

The legendary commentator sparked the furore when he made the comments in reference to Elliott's physical presence, while attempting to praise the striker.

TalkSPORT have since removed Saturday's entire seven-and-a-half hour Matchday Live FA Cup broadcast from its website.

A talkSPORT spokesman said on Monday night: "We reviewed a live commentary by John Motson and decided to remove it from replay.

"talkSPORT and all of its broadcasters take such matters very seriously and would never wish to offend."

Motson was convinced to return to commentary by talkSPORT having retired at the end of last season following 50 years with the BBC.

The broadcaster began his career in the 1960s and commentated on every FA Cup final between 1979 and 2008 - with the exception of 1994 and 1995.