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Andy Gray axed by Sky Sports

Andy Gray's comments were deemed 'unacceptable' © PA Photos

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Pundit Andy Gray has left Sky Sports in the aftermath of his controversial comments on female officials.

Sky has confirmed it has terminated his contract in light of "new evidence of unacceptable and offensive behaviour".

Along with presenter Richard Keys, Gray was caught off camera making controversial comments about assistant referee Sian Massey ahead of Liverpool's 3-0 victory over Wolves on Saturday. Keys suggested that "somebody better get down there and explain offside to her", and Gray added: "They probably don't know the offside rule".

Sky News then released footage on Monday evening of Gray in conversation with Sky Sports reporter Andy Burton. Burton, who has been stood down for Wednesday night's Carling Cup semi-final, referred to Massey as a "bit of a looker" while Gray again said she would be unaware of the offside rule.

Keys has since telephoned Massey to apologise and, although Gray had not been in contact, a Sky spokesman said: "It wasn't a case of Andy not apologising. It doesn't really make sense for both of them to call."

However, after footage emerged of Gray joking that Sky Sports News presenter Charlotte Jackson should help him to tuck his shirt in, he has now left the company.

A Sky statement read: "The decision, which is effective immediately, was made in response to new evidence of unacceptable and offensive behaviour. The new evidence, relating to an off-air incident that took place in December 2010, came to light after Andy Gray had already been subjected to disciplinary action for his comments of January 22, 2011."

Barney Francis, managing director of Sky Sports, said on Tuesday: "Andy Gray's contract has been terminated for unacceptable behaviour. After issuing a warning yesterday, we have no hesitation in taking this action after becoming aware of new information today."

Massey has been withdrawn from the League Two game between Crewe and Bradford on Tuesday night.

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