ESPN: Jon Champion did not 'intend' to cause offence

ESPN have released a statement in response to criticism aimed at commentator Jon Champion for his words during Liverpool's FA Cup clash with Mansfield Town on Sunday.

Reds striker Luis Suarez appeared to use his hand to control the ball in the build-up to their second goal, prompting Champion to respond: "That, I'm afraid, is the work of a cheat".

The statement read: "We take our responsibility to deliver the highest standards of coverage to our viewers. ESPN's editorial policy is for commentators to be unbiased and honest, to call things as they see them.

"Inevitably this can involve treading a fine line on occasion, especially in the heat of the moment. Comments during the Mansfield vs. Liverpool match caused offence where none was intended and we have spoken to our commentator about this incident."

Liverpool won the match 2-1 to advance to the fourth round of the competition.