Moyes in PREM 'slap' storm: Boss threatens female Match Of The Day reporter

The Sunderland manager also told stunned Vicki Sparks to “be careful” before returning to the Stadium of Light.

Ex-Manchester United and Everton boss Moyes issued the threats after Sparks interviewed him for the BBC following his side’s 0-0 draw against Burnley last month.

The TV cameras had stopped filming, but Moyes was caught ranting at Sparks by another worker who was recording on their phone.

STADIUM OF FIGHT: David Moyes has been accused of bullying

In the footage he says: “It was 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.”

He added: “Careful the next time you come in.”

Moyes seemed to be upset by Vicki’s final question when she asked whether he was under more pressure because club chairman Ellis Short was watching in the stands.

THREAT: He told Match Of The Day reporter Vicki Sparks she deserved 'a slap'

During the interview he batted off the comment and said: “None at all.”

But his mood turned more sinister as soon as the official grilling was over.

One colleague of Vicki Sparks, who asked not to be named, said last night: “This is disgraceful bullying and sexism ending with a chilling warning.”

Last night a BBC spokesman said: “Mr Moyes has apologised to our reporter and she has accepted his apology.”

INTERVIEW: Moyes issued the threat following the game against Burnley

COMMENTS: He told the the reporter to 'be careful' before returning to the Stadium of Light

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

Moyes’ rant was revealed as Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho came under fire for his post-match interview with the BBC’s Conor McNamara.

The Portuguese, whose team had been held to a 0-0 draw by West Bromwich Albion, blasted McNamara’s questions as “stupid”.

Match of the Day pundit Chris Sutton later said Mourinho should focus on “sorting his own team out” rather than rowing with reporters.