MATCH of the Day pundit Alan Hansen has apologised for describing black players as "coloured" during a debate on the show.
The former Liverpool player and Scotland international used the term on Wednesday night while discussing recent racism rows involving Luis Suarez and John Terry.
During the BBC 1 programme, Hansen said he did not believe racism was as big a problem in football any more because there are lots of "coloured" players in leading teams.
He then repeated the word, saying: "Coloured players are probably the best in the Premier League."
The BBC received more than 80 complaints following the broadcast and Hansen has since apologised for using that word. He said: "I unreservedly apologise for any offence caused. This was never my intention and I deeply regret the use of the word."
Hansen's remarks provoked mixed reactions from anti-racism campaigners. Bill Butler, campaign manager at Show Racism The Red Card Scotland, said the pundit had simply misjudged the use of the word. He said: "I think the term black footballers is the correct one.
"I think it's obviously just a poor choice of words and I believe any sensible person would accept that. Obviously Mr Hansen has apologised and we have to accept that apology."
However, Rami Ousta, of Black and Ethnic Minority Infrastructure in Scotland, argued the language used was entirely inappropriate.
He said: "There is no doubt the use of such terminology is unacceptable and reflects ignorance of the context of race equality or even human rights frameworks.
"We would use ethnic and cultural minority terminology."
He added there has long been a perception by minority groups that racism is prevalent in sport.
Mr Ousta said: "There is a strong belief within the diverse ethnic minority communities that, historically, racism within sport is deep-rooted and the structure of football receives the biggest chunk of this claim. The SFA [Scottish Football Association] has been working with us to develop a specific programme for ethnic minorities across Scotland to promote and stimulate full participation in mainstream football structures and settings."
The comments also sparked an online storm on Twitter, with one user branding Hansen "a complete fool".
Another fan wrote: "Anyone else's jaw hit the floor as Alan Hansen said racism wasn't a problem in English football because of success of 'coloured' players?"
However, others defended thepundit, with one Twitter user saying: "He's not a racist, he's just old skool."
Hansen's remarks followed the news that England football captain John Terry will face criminal charges over video footage appearing to show him shouting an offensive comment at Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand.
The multimillionaire Chelsea defender faces a maximum fine of £2500 if convicted. Terry has said he will fight to prove his innocence.
Liverpool player Luis Suarez was given an eight-match ban by the Football Association on Tuesday after being found guilty of misconduct for using insulting words to Patrice Evra which included a reference to the Manchester United defender's skin colour.
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