John Motson apologises to Millwall striker Tom Elliott after race gaffe

John Motson has offered a personal apology to Tom Elliott after the commentator described the Millwall striker as ‘big, black and brave’ on the radio.

Sportsmail exclusively revealed on Monday night how the legendary broadcaster had been reprimanded by talkSPORT bosses for his comments during the station’s coverage of Millwall’s 1-0 win over AFC Wimbledon in the FA Cup fifth round on Saturday.

And we can reveal Motson contacted Elliott on Monday to say sorry for his remarks, insisting it was an error of judgement, and apologising for any offence he may have caused. 

John Motson has apologised to Tom Elliott for describing him as ‘big, black and brave’ on air

Comments about Elliott (right) occurred in coverage of Millwall’s win over AFC Wimbledon

Motson contacted the Millwall striker and Elliott wishes to draw a line under the affair

Sportsmail understands Elliott acknowledged the 73-year-old’s apology and made clear he wants to draw a line under the race furore.

Motson – one of the most revered broadcasters of a generation – made the comments in reference to Elliott’s physical presence but his clear attempts to praise the centre-forward have sparked controversy.

The broadcast has since been removed from talkSPORT’s website.

A talkSPORT spokesman said on Monday night: ‘We reviewed a live commentary by John Motson and decided to remove it from replay.

‘talkSPORT and all of its broadcasters take such matters very seriously and would never wish to offend.’