I was one of the few people who were surprised to find out that football presenter Andy Gray had his contract terminated by Sky Sports on the 26/01/2011. Many were expecting him to be kicked out due to the aptly named ‘masseygate scandal’ but I can’t see how Sky can justify terminating his contract.

All Andy Gray did was speak his mind, his own freedom of speech, off air. I’m not agreeing with his comments but I believe that everyone has the right to think for themselves. If he had made these prehistoric comments on air then I’d agree he deserves to be sacked but how many times have we spoken to someone face to face, then turned around and insulted or undermining them behind their back. We wouldn’t go live on television and do it but we would discuss it with friends. That’s all he was doing. He was off air and having a bit of banter with his colleague. The same kind of banter and “sexism” that is broadcast everyday over various channels, for instance, Loose Women and Top Gear.

Andy Gray is of a different time where female referees weren’t even thought of being involved in the game of football. I’m glad that times are changing and that we are now able to see female officials on the pitch. She made a bold offside decision, and looking at replays she got it spot on! I feel for Sian Massey as she is just an innocent bystander in this mess. She was given the opportunity to make a real impression on the game and now the only reminder of what a good job she did will be scarred by off air comments put to broadcast by cowardly individuals.

It’s a shame that Andy Gray, regardless of how many people despised him is a excellent football analyst, has lost his job for speaking his mind. Something I thought we promoted and fought for all over the world.

Now we face questions over who will be his replacement and it has to be done fast as I tuned in to watch Bolton vs. Chelsea and was horrified at Sam Allardyce’s poor comments and lack of emotion when he spoke about the game, our beautiful game!