THIS is the moment a Sky Sports News presenter spectacularly mucked up Michael Beale’s name live on-air.
Reporter Keith Downie was reacting to the fallout of Beale’s dismissal from Sunderland, which happened late this afternoon – barely four months on from being sacked by Rangers.
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At around 6.28pm, Downie was on call for Sky to report from outside Sunderland’s ground to give viewers an update on the latest from the Stadium of Light.
Downie is Sky Sports News’ North East reporter, meaning he regularly covers both Sunderland and Newcastle.
So you’d think he’d never forget the important names at either club – managers, chairmen, star players.
With that in mind, maybe there was just a slip of the tongue when it came to reporting on Beale’s departure from Wearside.
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Downie ran through the next steps for Sunderland, confirming that coach Mike Dodds has been placed in interim charge.
After giving that update to supporters, Downie mistook Michael Beale for IAN BEALE, of EastEnders fame.
During a piece to camera, he said: “…Mike Dodds, safe pair of hands.
“I think most supporters will be happy because he did well in those three matches in charge between Tony Mowbray and Ian Beale – Ian Beale! Sorry! Michael Beale – back in December.”
Studio host Mike Powell responded: “That’s the Freudian slip of the day, possibly the month!”
Punters on social media speculated over whether the mishap was genuine or not.
Indeed, some reckon it could’ve all been part of a cheeky wager.
“Defo won a bet doing that,” said one fan.
Another said: “Did you accidentally do that on purpose?”
Others used the opportunity to, pardon the pun, take the mick out of the now-unemployed Beale.
“Ian Beale would probably have done a better job ha!” came one reply.
“Would’ve been better with Ian Beale,” joked another.
Others simply saw the moment as a funny gaffe, with one described it as “outstanding” and another saying: “Hahahaha, gold this!”
Comments of “sensational” and “crying” also came.
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“IAN BEALE! What a hero @SkySports_Keith” said another fan.
Meanwhile, it has emerged that Beale had already lost the dressing room weeks ago after he demanded his players turn up for extra training following a defeat – only to take the day OFF himself.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page