Sky Sports forced to issue apology after false claim Arsenal legend is dead on live TV

Emmanuel Petit was swiftly corrected on live television after he mistakenly announced that Arsenal legend Pat Rice had died during Sky Sports' Monday Night Football. The Frenchman, who was the studio guest that evening, watched his old team Chelsea secure a 3-1 victory over Wolves at Stamford Bridge.

However, it was his comments about his time with Arsenal that required immediate clarification.

Petit, who joined Arsenal in 1997 and played under Arsene Wenger, made over 100 appearances for the club, clinching both the Premier League and FA Cup titles. Recalling his days at Highbury, Petit mentioned Pat Rice and remarked: "He had some fights with Pat Rice as well, rest in peace Pat."

To the relief of many, host David Jones interjected, stating: "I've got some good news, Pat Rice sends his best. He's not actually no longer with us. He's alive and kicking."

This correction prompted laughter from fellow guest Jamie Carragher and elicited an earnest, albeit relieved, apology from Petit, who said: "I'm sorry! Sorry Pat. I'm confused. I'm so sorry Pat. Pat, I made a mistake, sorry.", reports the Mirror.

Rice, a revered figure at Arsenal and former defender, is still very much alive. The Northern Irishman, who grew up in London and once worked at a greengrocer's near Arsenal's old Highbury stadium, remains a beloved part of the club's history.

He made his mark on the club in 1967, embarking on a remarkable 13-year playing career with over 500 games under his belt. The Belfast-born stalwart was instrumental in Arsenal's 1971 First Division and FA Cup triumph, adding another FA Cup to his collection before transitioning to Watford.

Rice's bond with the Gunners extended far beyond his playing days, as he returned in 1984 to shape young talents as a youth coach. His journey saw him step up to manage the senior team briefly as a caretaker before becoming a trusted assistant to Arsene Wenger, an era that saw his path intertwine with Petit.

In 2012, Rice bid farewell to Arsenal for a second time, leaving behind a glowing legacy acknowledged by Wenger. At the time, Wenger expressed his profound gratitude, stating: "Pat is a true Arsenal legend and has committed almost his whole life to Arsenal Football Club, which shows huge loyalty and devotion to this club. I will always be indebted to him for his expert insight into Arsenal and football as a whole. On the training pitches and on matchdays, Pat has always been a passionate, loyal and insightful colleague, who we will all miss."