Shay Given Apologizes for Holocaust Remark on BBC's Final Score
Former Premier League goalkeeper Shay Given has issued an unreserved apology for his insensitive comments about Wilfried Nancy's brief tenure as Celtic manager. During a live segment on BBC's Final Score, Given described Nancy's 33-day reign as an 'absolute Holocaust', a phrase that has sparked widespread controversy.
Given, 49, was invited to share his thoughts on Nancy's sacking, which came after just eight games and 33 days in charge of the Scottish champions. In a statement on X, Given acknowledged his use of a word he didn't fully comprehend, expressing his regret and commitment to never using it again.
He stated, 'We all have areas of ignorance in our knowledge, and I hope this incident serves as a learning opportunity for me. I am genuinely mortified and offer my unreserved apology to anyone who felt offended. As a gesture of goodwill, I will be donating my fee from today's show to the Holocaust Educational Trust.'
The Holocaust, a tragic event orchestrated by Nazi Germany during World War II, resulted in the loss of approximately six million Jewish lives. The incident has prompted an apology from the show's presenter, Jason Mohammad, for the 'inappropriate language' used.
Wilfried Nancy, a Frenchman, was dismissed from his role as Celtic manager last week following a 3-1 defeat to Rangers, marking his sixth loss in eight games. His 33-day reign as Celtic boss stands as the shortest in the club's history.
