SKY SPORTS could use pre-recorded crowd noise to block out an X-rated chant from Everton fans against Manchester United on Sunday.
Home supporters are poised to protest over the club’s 10-point deduction by blasting “Premier League corrupt as f***’” in the tenth minute of the live TV game.
AlamySean Dyche’s Everton could get a noisy reception in more ways than one when the Prem returns with Sunday’s home clash vs Man Utd[/caption]
The TimesToffees’ supporters are plotting a verbal blast at Prem chiefs[/caption]
The Times say Sky will act to drown out any offensive language – to make sure their coverage sticks within broadcast guidelines.
That could include using noise already recorded – a tactic deployed during the Covid lockdown.
At that time, though, it became an interactive choice for TV viewers – rather than enforced.
The other option was to watch the matches – from quiet stadiums devoid of supporters – with little “atmosphere”.
Now Sky will take action to follow Ofcom rules on not broadcasting bad language, especially at such a family time as Sunday afternoon and well before the 9pm watershed.
Many Everton fans are furious at the 10-point penalty for a single breach of profit and sustainability rules.
They believe the punishment is too stiff, particularly as Manchester City face 115 charges and Chelsea are being investigated over payments in the Roman Abramovich era.
And it could get worse for the Toffees – with the risk of an extra nine-point deduction.
The Mail suggest Everton might be hit with a £300million compensation bill – if Burnley, Leicester and Leeds sue the Goodison club and win their case.
That could leave new Everton owners 777partners struggling to pay up.
And if they failed to do so, the Toffees would be put into administration – meaning nine points docked off.