Rio Ferdinand forced to apologise after swearing live on TNT Sports before Newcastle vs Tottenham

Rio Ferdinand was forced to apologise for swearing live on TNT Sports ahead of Newcastle and Tottenham’s Premier League encounter.

United icon Ferdinand was taking part in a quiz alongside Peter Crouch ahead of Newcastle’s lunchtime kick-off with Tottenham.

Presenter Jules Breach provided clues as the pair were asked to name players who had turned out for both clubs.

One question saw Ferdinand and Crouch asked to name a defender who won the FA Youth Cup with Leeds in 1997 before going on to make 300 appearances for six different clubs, including one in Spain.

The TNT Sports pundits appeared stumped, with Ferdinand incorrectly proposing Paul Robinson and then the late Gary Speed, who never played for Spurs.

Crouch then stumbled upon the correct answer - Jonathan Woodgate.

Frustrated, Ferdinand bellowed: “Oh s***”. The former England international’s slip of the tongue prompted an apology for Breach, as Crouch turned away to conceal his laughter.

Ferdinand said: “Sorry, too competitive.”

Fans on social media were quick to see the funny side behind the situation, with one writing on X (formally Twitter): “Rio just swore on TNT Sports [laughing face emojis].”

Another merely said: "Rio Ferdinand”, alongside a host of laughing face emojis.

Some weren’t quite as happy, however.

"Disgusting from Rio Ferdinand @tntsports horrific language at this time SACK HIM!!!", a third person insisted.

A fourth asked: "How does Rio Ferdinand get a chance on TNT every week?"

Tottenham travel to St James Park looking to strengthen their challenge for the Champions League spot.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are eighth in the Premier League after a campaign of mixed form and several injuries, but remain in the shake-up for a Europa League place.

Ahead of the game Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou said Newcastle's difficult season should act as a warning should Spurs secure Champions League football.

"Certainly there is a cautionary tale there," the 58-year-old said.

"It has been tough on Newcastle this year because the progress last year was fantastic.

"The reward for that was Champions League and this year, for whatever reason, it has made it a really challenging season on all fronts for them."