Sunderland back David Moyes after his threat to slap a female reporter

Sunderland have backed David Moyes despite his threat to slap a BBC reporter recently.

Sunderland have issued a statement backing their manager David Moyes, after the former Everton and Manchester United boss apologised for threatening to slap BBC reporter Vicki Sparks after the goalless draw against Burnley in March. The statement from Sunderland reads...

Sunderland AFC would like to reiterate the actions taken following the Burnley game on March 18. The exchange between the manager and a BBC reporter was wholly unacceptable and such actions are not condoned or excused in any way. David recognised this immediately, proactively bringing the matter to the attention of the CEO (Martin Bain) and apologising to the reporter. The club also spoke with both a senior figure at the BBC and the reporter personally, expressing its profound regret over what had occurred. The matter was treated with the utmost seriousness from the outset and the swift and decisive action taken by the club and the manager at the time ensured that it was resolved to the satisfaction of the reporter and the BBC, which was the priority. With both the BBC and the reporter agreeing that appropriate action had been taken at the time, the club continues to fully support David in his role as manager of Sunderland AFC.

Moyes has said he has no plans to resign after the incident, which could yet be investigated by the Football Association. Sunderland - eight points from safety at the bottom of the Premier League - face champions Leicester City on Tuesday night.