Andy Gray saga could impact FIFA 12

Publisher EA is remaining tight-lipped over the possible omission of former Sky Sports presenter Andy Gray from this year’s version of FIFA.

Gray has dominated the headlines this week after being caught making disparaging remarks off-camera about female Premier League assistant referee Sian Massey. Yesterday the satellite channel sacked the presenter following details of further sexism claims.

Gray has provided the in-game commentary for the FIFA series since FIFA 97.

When asked by Eurogamer if Gray’s inclusion in FIFA 12 is in doubt, a tight-lipped representative stated: "EA Sports has not made any announcements about our in-game commentators for FIFA for 2011. Those announcements will be made later this year."

This is the third time in just over a year that EA has been forced to ponder its celebrity endorsement agreements due to media scandals.

In late 2009 PGA Tour star Tiger Woods was rumbled for having a string of affairs. EA has stood by its man on the whole, though notably this year’s Tiger Woods PGA Tour 12 will not feature the star on its cover.

Then in September last year FIFA cover star Wayne Rooney was also caught playing away from home.

Again, EA at the time backed the England star but it’s unclear whether the Manchester United striker, who has struggled this season scoring only three times for his club, will grace the FIFA 12 sleeve.