Sky Sports commentator Martin Tyler’s commentary during Liverpool’s 4-3 win against Tottenham was marred by what appeared to be a controversial remark.
While commentating on the match, Tyler compared a tackle made by Tottenham’s South Korean forward Son on Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo to “martial arts”.
And fans on twitter were quick to notice and call out the 77-year-old for his remark.
One fan wrote: “Time to make a change. Martin Tyler talking about “martial arts” after an Asian player receives a yellow card is unacceptable. “No Room for Racism” isn’t just a slogan. Gary Neville should be reporting that.”
Time to make a change @premierleague @SkySports. Martin Tyler talking about “martial arts” after an Asian player receives a yellow card is unacceptable. “No Room for Racism” isn’t just a slogan. @GNev2 should be reporting that. #LIVTOT
— Rob (@GrIdL0cK) April 30, 2023
Another tweeted: Surprised there isn’t more being made of Martin Tyler comparing South Korean football Heung-min Son’s foul on Cody Gakpo to “martial arts.” Shocking stuff.
Surprised there isn’t more being made of Martin Tyler comparing South Korean football Heung-min Son’s foul on Cody Gakpo to “martial arts.”
Shocking stuff.
— Jack Lusby (@LusbyJack) April 30, 2023
Another pointed out that he would not have made that comment if an Englishman made the challenge, calling it casual racism:
“Anyone notice the snide casually racist (IMO) comment by Martin Tyler about Son? Tugged LFC for yellow and Tyler called it a martial arts move. Wouldn’t have used term had an Englishman committed offence. Uncalled for and not a good look, Martin”
Anyone notice the snide casually racist (IMO) comment by Martin Tyler about Son? Tugged LFC for yellow and Tyler called it a martial arts move. Wouldn’t have used term had an Englishman committed offence. Uncalled for and not a good look, Martin #LIVTOT
— Danny Caro (@DjCaro) April 30, 2023
Martin Tyler said “martial arts” because it was Son loool he’s so racist
— Lou? (@louroll89ffs) April 30, 2023
The South Korean was on the scoresheet as for Tottenham as Spurs fought hard to come back from 3 goals down to draw 3-3. However, despite Richarlison scoring Spurs’ equaliser in the 93rd winner, Liverpool managed to find the winner just a minute later as they secured a crucial 4-3 win.
