Moyes 'deeply regrets' threatening to slap reporter

Moyes has apologised for the exchange with reporter Vicki Sparks after the Black Cats' 0-0 Premier League draw with Burnley at the Stadium of Light on March 18.

And speaking at a press conference on Monday, the Scot said: It was in the heat of the moment. I deeply regret the comments I made.

That's certainly not the person I am. I've accepted the mistake. I spoke to the BBC reporter, who accepted my apology.''

Sparks had asked if owner Ellis Short's presence at the game had meant he was under more pressure, with the club once again fighting relegation.

Footage published by the Daily Star shows the Scot answering, No, none at all'' before the interview drew to a close.

However, thinking he was off camera, he then added: You were just getting a wee bit naughty at the end there, so just watch yourself.

You still might get a slap even though you're a woman.

Careful the next time you come in.''

Both Moyes and Sparks were laughing during the off-hand exchange and the reporter did not make a complaint.

Meanwhile a domestic abuse charity has called for the Football Association to investigate.

Clare Phillipson, director of Wearside Women in Need, was stunned'' when she watched the exchange on video.

She said: I think the FA have to look into it.

It is for the FA to set a clear standard about what they think is acceptable.

It's the sort of thing you expect down the local pub, not the kind of thing you get from a professional football manager.''

A Sunderland spokesman said: David and the reporter spoke to one another subsequently and the matter was resolved amicably.''

The BBC confirmed that Moyes and Sparks had spoken since and that the matter was resolved.

A spokesman said: Mr Moyes has apologised to our reporter and she has accepted his apology.''