20 February 2024 , 09:52
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A Sky Sports presenter made an almighty mix-up live on air while reporting the sacking of Michael Beale on Monday.
Sunderland parted company with their manager despite him spending just a matter of months in the dugout. When doing so, however, Keith Downie accidentally got his name wrong and referred to him as Ian Beale - the iconic character from BBC Soap Eastenders.
His colleague called it the "slip of the day" before Downie couldn't help but smile as he corrected his mishap. Ian Beale, who is played by Adam Woodyatt, is the drama's longest-serving main character and one of four remaining original characters.
Michael Beale only took charge of 12 games for the Black Cats after replacing Tony Mowbray in the dugout. The ex-Rangers manager was looking to revive the club's play-off ambitions but only won four of his games with Saturday's defeat at Birmingham City proving the final straw.
Mike Dodds has been named as the club’s interim Head Coach having taken charge impressively for a short period earlier this term at the Stadium of Light. Dodds will lead the club through until the end of the season as a long-term replacement is sought.
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Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman said: “We are disappointed that Michael is leaving Sunderland AFC. Our desire is to improve and unfortunately that hasn’t been evident, as such we take full accountability and feel that acting decisively is in the best interests of the Club.
"This has been a difficult few months for Michael, who leaves with our best wishes for the future. Our focus is now on the players and supporting Mike Dodds in the remaining games to ensure we achieve the highest possible league finish. We will be updating our supporters further as and when significant developments are made.”
The Sky Sports reporter accidentally said Ian Beale, instead of Michael (BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)Michael Beale was axed by Rangers earlier this year and has now been shown the door for a second time in a season. He is attempting to forge a career as a No 1 having served as Steven Gerrard's assistant previously.
The bookies have installed Reims head coach Will Still as the early favourite to be the next Sunderland boss with the Englishman previously holding positive discussions with club owner Louis-Dreyfus.
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