THE BBC have said pundit Michael Stewart WON’T be back until they are certain his row over Rangers PR chief Jim Traynor won’t be repeated.
The former Hearts and Hibs man has been off air for a fortnight after taking aim at Traynor on the Beeb’s radio show Sportsound.
Stewart’s BBC suspension is still ongoingCredit: PA:Press Association
He blasted Rangers PR chief Traynor during a Sportsound showCredit: Willie Vass
He has also been absent from TV highlights show Sportscene in which he regularly features alongside host Jonathan Sutherland and Steven Thompson.
James McFadden replaced Stewart on the BBC Scotland broadcast initially with Malky Mackay featuring on last night’s episode following the weekend action.
SunSport revealed last week Stewart’s Beeb suspension would be extended into this week.
But no return date has been set with the broadcaster determined to ensure there is no repeat of the furore.
A BBC spokesperson said: “Our editorial guidelines were not adhered to on Sportsound and we’re still in discussions to ensure there’s no repeat of that in future.
“While those discussions continue, Michael Stewart will not appear on any of our sports programmes.”
The fall-out between the BBC and the footie pundit saw the broadcaster issue an on air apology to Traynor following the explosive Sportsound show.
The latest development leaves Stewart’s future at the BBC hanging in the balance with it being unclear whether or not he will return to the broadcaster at all.
Stewart first learned of his suspension when he was taken off air just hours before he was due to go live at Tynecastle just under a fortnight ago.
He had been scheduled for co-commentary duties for the Hearts meeting with Kilmarnock match on the Sportsound football show.
But he was informed by BBC bosses that his services would not be required and was drafted in by BT sport for Motherwell’s 4-0 defeat to Celtic.
Celtic fans mock Rangers with ‘welcome to the party’ chant after Pittodrie win
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
